Additive
Carboxymethyl cellulose
Low concern
Not a red flag on its own. Pay attention if it shows up often.
What it is
Carboxymethyl cellulose, a cheap thickener.
Why it’s used
Body in sauces and ice cream that would otherwise be thin.
What to know
Some research flags gut effects at high doses. A sometimes extra.
Who should skip
Sensitive guts.
A gentler swap
Food that is thick because it is food.
You’ll see it in
Ice cream, gluten-free products.
- Listed as an additive
Found in
- Silk Original Almondmilk49
- Oatly Original49
- Oatly Barista49
- Philadelphia Original52
- Philadelphia Whipped54
- Philadelphia Light57