INS 466 is sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, often called CMC. It is a modified plant cellulose (the structural fibre of plants) that thickens, stabilises, and holds water. On Indian packs it shows up in ice cream, low-fat curd, milkshakes, jellies, and some gluten-free bakery, where it gives texture and stops separation. It is generally vegan and is permitted by FSSAI for specified food categories.
Quick Facts
INS Number
466
E-Number
E466
Category
Thickener
Veg Status
Vegan
FSSAI Status
Permitted by FSSAI
JECFA ADI
Not specified (1989)
Chemical Name
sodium carboxymethyl cellulose
What is INS 466?
INS 466 is sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, often called CMC. It is a modified plant cellulose (the structural fibre of plants) that thickens, stabilises, and holds water. On Indian packs it shows up in ice cream, low-fat curd, milkshakes, jellies, and some gluten-free bakery, where it gives texture and stops separation.
Why brands add it
Brands use it because CMC thickens at low doses, keeps ice cream creamy by stopping ice-crystal growth, and prevents low-fat dairy from going watery. It also slows the staling of bread and gives gluten-free flours a structure that mimics wheat dough.
Where you'll find it
INS 466 commonly shows up on Indian packets in these categories:
ice cream and kulfi
low-fat curd and yogurt drinks
milkshakes and flavoured milk
jellies and gummy candies
salad dressings and sauces
gluten-free bread and bakery
Veg or non-veg? - Vegan
Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose is made from plant cellulose (typically wood pulp or cotton linters) chemically modified with sodium chloroacetate. No animal product is used in its manufacture.
FSSAI status and JECFA evaluation
FSSAI: Permitted by FSSAI under Schedule I of the FSS (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations 2011 as a thickener, stabiliser, and bulking agent for specified food categories with category-specific limits.
JECFA: ADI 'not specified' for sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, established at 35th JECFA (1989). 'Not specified' is JECFA's safest classification at typical use levels.
Also known as
On packets, in recipes, and in conversation, INS 466 is also called:
Vegan. Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose is made from plant cellulose (typically wood pulp or cotton linters) chemically modified with sodium chloroacetate. No animal product is used in its manufacture.
Is INS 466 permitted by FSSAI?+
Permitted by FSSAI under Schedule I of the FSS (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations 2011 as a thickener, stabiliser, and bulking agent for specified food categories with category-specific limits.
What is INS 466 used for?+
Brands use it because CMC thickens at low doses, keeps ice cream creamy by stopping ice-crystal growth, and prevents low-fat dairy from going watery. It also slows the staling of bread and gives gluten-free flours a structure that mimics wheat dough.
Is INS 466 (also written as E466) the same thing?+
Yes. INS 466 (the Codex International Numbering System used by FSSAI) and E466 (the European E-number system) refer to the same compound. The digits are identical for almost all common additives. Indian packets may show either form, or the common name (sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (cmc)).
This page summarises FSSAI's permission status and JECFA's scientific evaluation. It is not medical or dietary advice. Manufacturer ingredient sourcing can vary, especially for source-dependent additives - the Indian veg/non-veg dot logo on the pack is the brand's declaration. For health decisions, consult a doctor or registered dietitian.