Overview

Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a salt commonly used in reduced-fat and gluten-free food products. It is also used in laundry detergents, in ophthalmology as a lubricant for artificial tears and as a thickening agent in the oil drilling industry. In the food industry, carboxymethylcellulose is used specifically in the manufacture of ice cream, the preparation of baked goods such as bread and cakes, and in high quality candies and cookies. It is also used in chewing gums, margarines and peanut butter as an emulsifier.