Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a commonly used food additive that is known for its thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying properties. In order to meet the requirements for food applications, CMC must adhere to certain standards and regulations.
Here are some of the main requirements for CMC in food applications:
Purity: CMC used in food applications must have a high level of purity to ensure that it does not contain any harmful substances or contaminants. The purity of CMC is typically measured by its degree of substitution (DS), which indicates the number of carboxymethyl groups per anhydroglucose unit in the cellulose backbone.
Viscosity: The viscosity of CMC is an important factor in its performance as a thickener and stabilizer in food products. Food manufacturers typically specify the required viscosity range of CMC for their products, and CMC suppliers must be able to provide CMC with the appropriate viscosity level.
Solubility: CMC must be easily soluble in water in order to be effective in food applications. The solubility of CMC can be affected by factors such as temperature, pH, and salt concentration, so it is important to select the appropriate CMC grade for each application.
Stability: CMC must be stable under the conditions of food processing and storage to ensure that it maintains its functionality and does not cause any adverse effects such as separation, gelling, or precipitation.
Regulatory compliance: CMC must comply with relevant regulations and guidelines for food additives, such as those set by the FDA in the United States or the European Food Safety Authority in Europe. This includes requirements for safety, labeling, and usage levels.
By meeting these requirements, CMC can be used effectively and safely in a wide range of food products, including baked goods, dairy products, beverages, sauces, and dressings.