Description – Carboxymethyl cellulose or cellulose gum is a cellulose derivative with carboxymethyl groups bound to some of the hydroxyl groups of the glucopyranose monomers that make up the cellulose backbone. It is often used as its sodium salt, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose. It is used as a bulk laxative, emulsifier and thickener in food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals and as a stabilizer for reagents.
Application – CMC is a very common stabilizer in ice creams because it is cold water soluble and can be used in mixes that are not subject to high temperatures. It is also used in baked good, beverages and other food products. Carboxymethylcellulose is used in the treatment of dry eyes as a lubricant to relive irritation and discomfort.