CAS 9004-34-6 Pharmaceutical Raw Materials Microcrystalline Cellulose Powder For Chemical Industry

Microcrystalline cellulose (C6H10O5)n is refined wood pulp. It is a white, free-flowing powder. Chemically, it is an inert substance, is not degraded during digestion and has no appreciable absorption. In large quantities it provides dietary bulk and may lead to a laxative effect.

Microcrystalline cellulose is a commonly used excipient in the pharmaceutical industry. It has excellent compressibility properties and is used in solid dose forms, such as tablets. Tablets can be formed that are hard, but dissolve quickly. Microcrystalline cellulose is the same as cellulose, except that it meets USP standards.

Is MCC Safe?

The FDA allows food companies to add cellulose, claiming that it is a harmless, organic additive. Manufacturers are able to include cellulose to contribute up to 4 percent of the total food product .

Microcrystalline cellulose in meat products is different, since the USDA regulates meat. The USDA has ruled that manufactured meat products can only contain 3.5 percent microcrystalline cellulose.

Some argue that microcrystalline cellulose is just a redundant filler, but it is more expensive than carbohydrate fillers like sugar and starches. And, unlike starch fillers, MCC isn’t derived from GMO plants. It’s not harvested from fields sprayed with pesticides; it’s gathered from sustainable forests

Benefits of Microcrystalline Cellulose

In terms of particle size Microcrystalline cellulose can be engineered to different um sizes. Due to its microcrystalline structure it offers a naturally large surface area with plenty of porosity and moisture retention powers. It’s often referred to as the best extrusion aid on the market for its excellent binding properties and cohesiveness. If water movement is well-controlled, phase separation is completely avoidable. It can create a dense, smooth surface that’s extremely nonfriable. It deforms under compression but forms powerful hydrogen bonds.