E463

Emulsifiers, Stabilisers, Thickeners and Gelling Agents.
Hydroxy propyl cellulose is prepared from cellulose, the main polysaccharide and constituent of wood and all plant structures. Commercially prepared from wood and chemically propylated.

Found in sterilised, pasteurised and UHT cream, low-calorie cream and pasteurised low-fat cream. Also used as a laxative and as an additive to tobacco products and in cosmetics as a binding agent, emulsion stabiliser, film former and viscosity adjuster.

Hydroxy propyl cellulose is quite soluble, and can be fermented in the large intestine. Large concentrations can cause intestinal problems, such as bloating, constipation and diarrhoea.