Carboxymethyl Cellulose as a Food Emulsifier: Are Its Days Numbered?

• DOI: 10.3390/polym15102408
• Publication Date: 2023-05-23T05:36:48Z
• Authors: Eduardo M. Costa; Sara Silva; Carla F. Pereira; Alessandra B. Rib...; Francisca Casanova; Ricardo Freixo; Manuela Pintado; Óscar L. Ramos
• Keywords: Carboxymethyl cellulose

Carboxymethyl cellulose use in industry is ubiquitous. Though it recognized as safe by the EFSA and FDA, newer works have raised concerns related to its safety, vivo studies showed evidence of gut dysbiosis associated with CMC’s presence. Herein lies question, CMC a pro-inflammatory compound? As no work addressed this we sought understand whether was through immunomodulation GI tract epithelial cells. The results that while not cytotoxic up 25 mg/mL towards Caco-2, HT29-MTX Hep G2 cells, had an overall behavior. In Caco-2 monolayer, itself increased IL-6, IL-8 TNF-α secretion, latter increasing 1924%, these increases being 9.7 times superior one obtained for IL-1β pro-inflammation control. co-culture models, increase secretion apical side, particularly IL-6 (692% increase), observed, when RAW 264.7 added, data more complex scenario stimulation (IL-6, MCP-1 TNF-α) anti-inflammatory (IL-10 IFN-β) cytokines basal side observed. Considering results, may exert effect intestinal lumen, despite required, incorporation foodstuffs must be carefully considered future minimize potential dysbiosis.