E464: Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose
What is E464?
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (E464), or HPMC, is a modified form of plant cellulose that dissolves in cold water to form a viscous solution. Unusually, it thickens and gels when heated and becomes fluid again as it cools.
Origin and production
It is made by chemically treating cellulose from wood pulp or cotton with methyl chloride and propylene oxide, which attach methyl and hydroxypropyl groups to the cellulose chain.
Why is it used?
HPMC is widely used to make vegetarian capsules for dietary supplements. In gluten-free breads it helps mimic gluten by trapping gas and giving structure, and it stabilises frozen desserts, sauces and fillings.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
HPMC is plant-derived and suitable for vegans and vegetarians; it is a common gelatine-free option for capsules marketed to vegetarian, halal and kosher consumers.
Safety and regulation
E464 is authorised in the EU and was re-evaluated by EFSA along with other modified celluloses, with no safety concern identified at reported uses.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E464
