E462: Ethyl Cellulose
Main role: coating and encapsulation
Also listed as: ethylcellulose
What is E462 (Ethyl Cellulose)?
Ethyl cellulose is a cellulose derivative used for film formation and coating. Its properties differ from water-soluble cellulose thickeners, so the shared word cellulose does not mean every derivative works the same way.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is coating and encapsulation. 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
- Ingredient coatings
- Encapsulated flavor preparations
- Specialized food coatings
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 E462, E 462, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include ethylcellulose. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
A coating ingredient may appear in small amounts as part of a compound ingredient. Check the complete formulation when comparing ethyl cellulose with cellulose gum.
Is E462 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 E462 as Ethyl 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.