E460: Cellulose
Main role: bulking and texture control
Also listed as: microcrystalline cellulose, powdered cellulose
What is E460 (Cellulose)?
Cellulose is a structural carbohydrate from plant material. E460 includes powdered and microcrystalline forms that behave differently in food. Unlike a dissolving sugar, cellulose can provide bulk or help keep particles evenly distributed.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is bulking and texture control. Texture ingredients help a recipe control thickness, binding, or separation. Their behavior depends on temperature, acidity, concentration, and other ingredients; two thickeners with similar names may not perform identically.
Food and formulation examples
- Grated cheese preparations
- Powdered mixes
- Reduced-fat fillings
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E460, E 460, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include microcrystalline cellulose, powdered cellulose. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Powdered cellulose and microcrystalline cellulose are related forms rather than identical processing grades. The presence of cellulose does not by itself show how much dietary fiber a serving provides.
Is E460 safe?
EFSA’s 2018 cellulose assessment found no concern for the reported food uses and use levels evaluated. EFSA celluloses re-evaluation (2018).
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E460 as Cellulose. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.