Approval of cellulose and cellulose derivatives at worldwide level
Cellulose and cellulose derivatives are considered safe and are approved by the authorities for use in all three categories around the world: food/feed, pharma and personal care. Extensive research is put into development of products that are in compliance with quality and safety requirements.
Food/feed
The safety of cellulose and cellulose derivatives as food additives has been extensively evaluated by regulatory bodies around the world. Positive opinions on the safe use of cellulose and its derivatives for human consumption have been issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the WHO/FAO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Health Canada and the Food Standard Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), just to mention some food safety authorities.
Pharma
Cellulose and cellulose derivatives have been used as pharmaceutical excipients for several decades demonstrating safe and effective application in treatment of humans. The safety of cellulose and cellulose derivatives as excipients has been comprehensively evaluated by regulatory bodies (such as US Food and Drug Administration FDA, European Medicine Agency EMA) for various administration routes and formulations.
Personal care
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has reviewed the available toxicological data on cellulose and cellulose derivatives and concluded they are safe when used as cosmetic ingredients.
Cellulose and cellulose derivatives have a long history of use in many different products with no known side effects. This corroborates the safe use and consumption of cellulose and cellulose derivatives for humans and animals.
