Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a common food additive that is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It is derived from cellulose, a naturally occurring polymer found in plants, and is typically added to protein powders in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2%.
In protein powders, CMC can help improve the texture and mouthfeel of the product, making it smoother and easier to mix. It can also help prevent clumping and improve the overall stability of the protein powder.
CMC is generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory agencies around the world, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).