What is E460? (Food Additive Explained)
E460 is cellulose — the main structural fibre in plant cell walls. As a food additive, it's used as an anti-caking agent (preventing grated cheese from clumping), a bulking agent, and a source of insoluble fibre. It's derived from wood pulp or cotton and is found in grated cheese, tablets, bread, and low-calorie products.
What is E460?
Full name: Cellulose
E460 covers two forms: microcrystalline cellulose (E460i) and powdered cellulose (E460ii). Both are derived from the cellulose in plant cell walls — typically sourced from wood pulp or cotton. Microcrystalline cellulose is processed more extensively to create a fine powder with specific functional properties. Cellulose is the most abundant organic compound on Earth, and as a food additive, it's essentially purified plant fibre.
What does E460 do in food?
E460 serves several functions depending on the product. As an anti-caking agent, it coats particles to prevent clumping — this is why grated Parmesan from a packet stays free-flowing. As a bulking agent, it adds volume without calories (humans cannot digest cellulose), making it popular in low-calorie and diet products. As a filler, it can replace more expensive ingredients. In tablets and supplements, it's used as a binder and disintegrant. In bread and bakery products, it can improve texture and moisture retention.
Where is E460 found?
E460 is commonly found in:
- Pre-grated and shredded cheese
- Vitamin tablets and supplements
- Low-calorie and diet products
- Bread and bakery products
- Sauces and dressings
- Processed meat products
Is E460 bad for you?
E460 is considered safe by EFSA and the FDA, with no specified ADI. It's essentially indigestible plant fibre — the same type of fibre found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, just in a purified form. It passes through the digestive system without being absorbed. There are no known adverse health effects. The criticism of E460 is less about safety and more about value — when it's used as a filler, you may be paying for wood pulp rather than the food you think you're buying. Pre-grated Parmesan coated in cellulose is a well-known example.
Why E460 matters for food choices
E460 is a reminder that 'safe' doesn't always mean 'desirable'. While cellulose is harmless, its use as a filler or bulking agent means you might be getting less actual food than you think. Under NOVA, the addition of purified cellulose is a marker of industrial processing. A block of cheese grated at home has no need for anti-caking agents. Whenever you see E460, it's worth asking whether a simpler, less processed version of the product exists.
Found this on a label?
Analyse the full ingredient list instantly
Paste any ingredient list into our free tools and see hidden sugars, processing level, and more.
Frequently asked questions
See this automatically while you shop Tesco
SpikeSaver detects additives like E460 automatically — no label reading needed.
Hidden sugars, NOVA classification, glucose impact, and keto suitability — all while you browse.
Install Chrome Extension — Free in BetaChrome extension · Free during beta · Works on Tesco.com