Is Cellulose Gum Vegan?

Yes, cellulose gum is typically considered vegan. Cellulose gum, also known as carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), is a derivative of cellulose, which is a natural polymer derived from plant sources such as wood pulp, cotton, or other fibrous plants. Cellulose itself is vegan, as it is obtained from plants and does not involve the use of animal-derived ingredients or processes.

During the manufacturing process of cellulose gum, cellulose undergoes chemical modification to introduce carboxymethyl groups, resulting in the formation of cellulose gum. This modification does not involve animal-derived ingredients or by-products, making cellulose gum suitable for vegan applications.

Cellulose gum is commonly used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in various food, pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial products. It is widely accepted by vegan consumers as a plant-derived additive that does not contain any animal-derived components. However, as with any ingredient, it’s always a good idea to check product labels or contact manufacturers to ensure that cellulose gum is sourced and processed in a vegan-friendly manner.