Methyl cellulose is a water-soluble polymer made from cellulose. It is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in food and cosmetics. Methyl cellulose is created when cellulose is treated with hydrochloric acid. The end result is a substance that is white, odorless, and tasteless. It has a wide range of uses, including as a thickener (as a substitute for cornstarch), a stabilizer (to prevent ingredients from separating or settling), a binding agent (to hold ingredients together), or an emulsifier (to blend two substances that don’t dissolve well in each other).
In this blog, we took an in-depth look at Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), a plant-based compound that revolutionized the nutritional supplement and pharmaceutical industries. We found that HPMC not only provides functional benefits as a thickener and stabilizer, but is also a safe and inclusive alternative to gelatin, making it suitable for a wide audience, including vegetarians and vegans.
The approval from regulatory authorities such as EFSA and the FDA emphasizes the safety of HPMC, supported by extensive scientific studies. Furthermore, the moisture-resistant properties and thermal stability of HPMC in capsule and tablet forms are undeniable, contributing to the quality and sustainability of nutritional supplements.