E460: Cellulose

What is E460?

Cellulose is the main structural fibre of plant cell walls, a long chain of glucose units that humans cannot digest. As a food additive, E460 covers microcrystalline cellulose and powdered cellulose, both fine, white, tasteless powders.

Origin and production

It is obtained mainly from wood pulp or cotton fibres, which are purified and either ground into a powder or partially broken down with acid to give microcrystalline cellulose.

Why is it used?

Cellulose works as an anti-caking agent, bulking agent, thickener and stabiliser. It is well known for keeping grated cheese from clumping, and is also found in supplements, frozen meals, pizzas, breads and frozen desserts.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

Cellulose comes from plants and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is not associated with animal-derived processing aids, so it does not usually raise halal or kosher concerns, although certification of the finished product remains the reliable guide.

Safety and regulation

Cellulose is authorised as a food additive in the EU and was re-evaluated by EFSA, which saw no need for a numerical acceptable daily intake. Like other dietary fibres, it passes through the gut largely unchanged.

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