Cellulose

Thickener

Cellulose at a glance

Category: Thickener
Also called: Microcrystalline Cellulose, MCC, Cellulose Gel
Commonly found in: Processed cheese, Ice cream, Bakery products, Sauces
Diets reviewed: 26 diets

What is Cellulose?

Cellulose is a complex carbohydrate and a major component of plant cell walls, making it the most abundant organic compound on Earth. In the food industry, cellulose is often used as a stabilizer, thickener, or a source of dietary fiber due to its natural ability to hold water and provide structure. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, but may sometimes be derived from corn, which is a consideration for those with corn allergies or sensitivities.

Also known as:

Microcrystalline CelluloseMCCCellulose Gel

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeCaution

Cellulose is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants, commonly used in food products as a stabilizer, thickener, or source of dietary fiber. This ingredient may include corn. Please contact the manufacturer for details.

Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Cellulose

People may avoid cellulose if they have a corn allergy or sensitivity, as some cellulose products may be derived from corn. Additionally, individuals on a highly restrictive or whole-foods diet might choose to avoid cellulose and other processed additives, preferring natural forms of fiber from whole foods. Always consult with manufacturers to confirm the source of cellulose in specific products.

Potential Reactions

Allergic reactions (if derived from corn)

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Cellulose

Processed cheese Ice cream Bakery products Sauces Salad dressings

Browse products that match your diet.

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Related to Cellulose

Other ingredients people often check alongside Cellulose.

Modified Cellulose GumCaution

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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