Using CMC for Gel Texture in Instant Drink Powder (Food Grade)
Question
I would like to know about a formulation for an instant drink powder (ผงชงดื่ม) that has a soft gel-like texture (เนื้อเจลหยุ่นๆ) when mixed with water. Can I use CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose) for this purpose? Is the CMC sold by your company suitable for consumption and is it food grade?
Answer
CMC or Carboxymethyl Cellulose can indeed be used to create a gel-like texture or increase viscosity in instant drink powders.
The company offers two types of CMC:
- Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC, 1000mPa.s.)
- Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC, 2000mPa.s.)
Both types function as thickeners/gelling agents and can be used together to adjust the gel texture as desired. CMC is commonly used in the food industry as a thickener and gelling agent, so the CMC sold by the company is suitable for use in the instant drink powder product you are developing.
How to use: It is soluble directly in water.
Usage rate: Recommended at 0.1-3% (depending on the desired viscosity).
