Microcrystalline Cellulose (E460I): What It Is and Is It Safe?
Purified, partially depolymerised cellulose produced by treating plant pulp with acid to remove amorphous regions, leaving crystalline particles (typically 20–200 µm). Used as an anti-caking agent, fat replacer, texturiser, and dietary fibre source in low-fat products. Non-digestible and well tolerated. EFSA and FDA consider it safe. Unlike standard powdered cellulose it forms stable gels, making it useful in emulsified and suspension products.
- Category
- Anti-Caking Agent / Stabiliser
- Typically used in
- Diet foods, low-fat dairy, tableted dietary supplements, shredded cheese (anti-caking), sauces
- Regulatory status
- Approved EU/USA/UK. Contributes to dietary fibre intake.
- Also listed as
- MCC
Scrannr flags Microcrystalline Cellulose automatically when you scan a barcode.
Products containing Microcrystalline Cellulose
We're building product pages that show real UK products containing Microcrystalline Cellulose, using Open Food Facts data. They'll appear here soon — in the meantime, scan any barcode with the Scrannr app to check for it instantly.
Let Scrannr read the label.
Scan a barcode and get the additives flagged in plain English, plus a clear health score. Free to download.