E469: Enzymatically Hydrolysed Carboxymethyl Cellulose
Main role: texture control
Also listed as: enzymatically hydrolyzed cellulose gum, hydrolysed CMC
What is E469 (Enzymatically Hydrolysed Carboxymethyl Cellulose)?
E469 is carboxymethyl cellulose that has undergone controlled enzymatic breakdown. This changes the polymer's size and processing behavior while retaining a relationship to the cellulose-gum family.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is 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
- Texture-control blends
- Sauces
- Specialized processed-food formulations
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 E469, E 469, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include enzymatically hydrolyzed cellulose gum, hydrolysed CMC. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Hydrolysed describes an ingredient-processing step. It does not mean a product is automatically easier to digest or suitable for a particular digestive condition.
Is E469 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 E469 as Enzymatically hydrolysed carboxy methyl cellulose, Enzymatically hydrolysed cellulose gum. 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.