Methyl cellulose is a water-soluble polymer made from cellulose. It is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in food and cosmetics. Methyl cellulose is created when cellulose is treated with hydrochloric acid. The end result is a substance that is white, odorless, and tasteless. It has a wide range of uses, including as a thickener (as a substitute for cornstarch), a stabilizer (to prevent ingredients from separating or settling), a binding agent (to hold ingredients together), or an emulsifier (to blend two substances that don’t dissolve well in each other).

Major Producers:

The largest HPMC manufacturers are global chemical and pharmaceutical companies that have manufacturing capabilities in several countries. Among these, we can mention Dow Chemical Company, Ashland, and Shin-Etsu Chemical. These companies are known for their ability to produce high-quality HPMC suitable for a wide range of applications, including those requiring high standards such as the pharmaceutical and food industries.

Importance in the Gluten Free Food Industry:

In the context of gluten-free, the importance of HPMC has grown alongside the growing awareness and diagnosis of celiac disease and other gluten sensitivities. The need for gluten-free products that maintain the sensorial and structural qualities of traditional foods has driven the search for effective additives such as HPMC.

Current Considerations:

Although HPMC is widely used and generally considered safe, the current trend in the food industry is moving towards less processed and more natural ingredients. This may influence consumer perceptions of HPMC and other similar additives. However, its effectiveness as a gluten substitute in gluten-free preparations still makes it a valuable ingredient for many producers and consumers.

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a key ingredient in many vitamins and dietary supplements, playing a vital role in the formulation and efficacy of these products. This compound is a derivative of cellulose, a naturally occurring polymer that makes up plant cell walls. Making HPMC by modifying cellulose requires the addition of hydroxypropyl and methyl groups, resulting in a water-soluble multifunctional substance with a wide range of applications.

The same applies to achieve the needed high viscosity together with an unobstructed (bubble-free) view through the media of the eye and an easy and simple injectability.