[JJ 911SC]

Originally Posted by Lady Jane

Correct just Carboxymethyl cellulose used as a thickener in many food products.

"Carboxymethyl cellulose is synthesized by the alkali-catalyzed reaction of cellulose with chloroacetic acid.[3] The polar (organic acid) carboxyl groups render the cellulose soluble and chemically reactive.[4] Fabrics made of cellulose—e.g. cotton or viscose rayon—may also be converted into CMC.[5]

Following the initial reaction, the resultant mixture produces approximately 60% CMC and 40% salts (sodium chloride and sodium glycolate). This product, called technical CMC, is used in detergents. An additional purification process is used to remove salts to produce pure CMC, which is used for food and pharmaceutical applications. An intermediate "semi-purified" grade is also produced, typically used in paper applications such as the restoration of archival documents."

Bon appétit...