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Names | |
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Other names
Cellulose, methyl ether; methylated cellulose; methylcellulose; E461
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Identifiers | |
ChemSpider |
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ECHA InfoCard | 100.115.188 |
E number | E461 (thickeners, ...) |
UNII | |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)
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Properties | |
variable | |
Molar mass | variable |
Pharmacology | |
A06AC06 (WHO) | |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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Methyl cellulose (or methylcellulose) is a compound derived from cellulose. It is sold under a variety of trade names and is used as a thickener and emulsifier in various food and cosmetic products, and also as a bulk-forming laxative. Like cellulose, it is not digestible, non-toxic, and not an allergen. In addition to culinary uses, it is used in arts and crafts such as papier-mâché and is often the main ingredient of wallpaper paste.
In 2020, it was the 422nd most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 100,000 prescriptions.[1]