Packed with a myriad of properties, microcrystalline cellulose is quickly becoming q common compound in the manufacturing industry. This recently developed material can be used in a myriad of applications. From pharmaceutical products to food, microcrystalline cellulose has so much to offer. So, if microcrystalline cellulose is something you want to incorporate into your life, keep reading. This guide is going to deep dive you into all you need to know about microcrystalline cellulose—delving into its production, applications, benefits, etc.
Introduction
Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is a polysaccharide that comprises many glucose units. It’s typically obtained by treating alpha-cellulose with mineral acids and hydrochloric acid. This odorless and tasteless powder is generally hygroscopic in nature. But when mixed with water, it swells and forms a gel.
MCC is available in different sizes that feature different properties. Not only is it biodegradable- but it’s also non-toxic and comprises numerous dietary fibers, as well as, salts. It’s commonly utilized in pharmaceutical applications as a tableting agent. Due to its high crystallinity, MCC is widely used in the manufacture of sprays, lotions, and oral suspensions.
Food and Microcrystalline Cellulose
Microcrystalline cellulose is also ideal for use in the food industry. Most food and beverage manufacturers utilize MCC as an anticaking or bulking agent. Smaller particles work perfectly for sauces, drinks, as well as, soups. On the other hand, larger particles make great anticaking and free-flowing agents. It’s an incredible alternative to silica and TiO2.
When it comes to gels, MCC serves as a stabilizer and thickener. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can also utilize it as an emulsifier. It has remarkable absorption capacity, low bulk density, and offers an excellent skin feel.
Microcrystalline cellulose is an incredible alternative to synthetic polymers. Moreover, it’s suitable for applications, such as the creation of detergents, as well as, paint coatings. When applied on textiles, it can significantly improve thickness, as well as, vapor permeability.
When it comes to varnishes, cellulose serves as an alternative to synthetic binders. Plus, it’s believed to be effective at enhancing scratch resistance. Due to its remarkable versatility, microcrystalline cellulose is a revolutionary product. It’ll definitely find more applications in the near future. So, if you haven’t tried it yet, it’s time you consider making that move.
What is Cellulose?
Cellulose refers to an organic chemical that comprises carbon, oxygen, as well as, hydrogen. It’s one of the most prevalent organic polymers on earth. Consuming it can go a long way in preventing constipation.
How is It Utilized in the Food Industry?
Cellulose is inexpensive. That’s why it’s extensively used in the production of various food products. For instance, cellulose is extensively used in the manufacture of white bread. It’s also important to note that microcrystalline plus carboxymethyl cellulose are also used to manufacture white bread. This makes cellulose an important aspect when it comes to the production of various kinds of foods.
Thickener or Emulsifier
Cellulose comes with powerful thickening as well as emulsifying properties. That’s why most sauces contain cellulose. When added to sources, cellulose thickens and emulsifies them. With its powerful gelling action, cellulose can combine with water—which plays a key role when it comes to thickening as well as stabilizing foods. Remember, cellulose gel works as an emulsion, which suspends the ingredients in a solution. This prevents water from separating from the water. Using a thickening substance helps more air to get into your products like ice-creams. Still more, cellulose helps you produce thick, creamy-based foods. Plus, you don’t have to use a lot of fats when producing these foods.
Anti-Caking Agent
Cellulose has the ability to absorb moisture. That’s why it’s commonly utilized as an additive in most anti-caking applications. It’s useful in the manufacture of shredded cheeses, spice mixes, as well as, powdered drinks.
Fiber Supplement
Adding cellulose to your food can increase your fiber intake without affecting its flavor. Since cellulose can easily mix and bind with water, it’s commonly added to foodstuff to enhance its fiber content. It’s also added to drinks, as well as, other liquid items to eliminate the gritty nature of the natural fiber.
Calorie Reducer
Cellulose offers a low caloric value. And because of this, it has become increasingly popular as a bulking agent in most dietary foods. Consuming foods that are highly rich in cellulose allows you to feel full without ingesting too many calories.
Forms of Cellulose
Microcrystalline cellulose can be found in numerous forms, depending on how well the molecules are hydrated, as well as, how they’re bonded. Powdered cellulose is most commonly utilized in food products as an anti-caking agent. Plus, it’s also useful in the manufacture of sauces, ice cream, as well as, frozen yogurt.
Additional Uses
Microcrystalline cellulose is one of the most important substances in both the food and pharmaceutical sphere. It can be used in the manufacture of drugs and other food supplements. Still more, microcrystalline cellulose has been approved for use by the EU for a number of applications. There are common applications where the use of Microcrystalline cellulose has been approved by the EU. Microcrystalline cellulose can be used as a thickener in the production of various foods. It can also be used as an abrasive in the cosmetic industry. Still more, cosmetic products rely on Microcrystalline cellulose as an absorbent as well as an anti-caking agent. This helps increase the viscosity of the agent. The cosmetic industry uses microcrystalline cellulose as a stabilizer. In a nutshell, microcrystalline cellulose is a crucial component in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries, thanks to its powerful anti-caking, strengthening, and abrasive properties.
Pro-Tip
Don’t purchase any cellulose product. Select the right one. Choose this Microcrystalline Cellulose product. It has been tried and tested.
The Bottom-Line
The manufacturing world is set to benefit from microcrystalline cellulose; thanks to its numerous benefits. For instance, the recent development of microcrystalline cellulose has sparked and encouraged the production of new products. So, don’t be left behind. Learn about microcrystalline cellulose and reap its numerous benefits.
