How dangerous is HPMC?

hydroxy methyl cellulose. HMC is valued for its ability to act as a binder, thickener, and stabilizer in these formulations, helping to ensure that the active ingredients are evenly distributed and that the product remains stable over time. HMC is also used as a film-forming agent in oral drug delivery systems, helping to control the release of the active ingredient in the body.
The safety profile of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) has been thoroughly reviewed and approved by several regulatory authorities worldwide, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These approvals underline the safe use of HPMC in both food products and medicines and number E464 is permitted as an additive of food and medicines.
Regulatory Approvals
HPMC is recognized as a safe food additive and pharmaceutical excipient. In the European Union, HPMC is included in the list of permitted substances that can be added to foods and medicines. The EFSA has evaluated HPMC and concluded that it does not pose a significant risk to public health when used according to approved guidelines and therefore number E464 is authorized for use in food.
Support from scientific studies
A series of scientific studies have extensively investigated the safety of HPMC. These studies have shown that HPMC is safe for consumption and has no toxic effects when ingested within stated limits. The studies focus on several aspects, including the degradation of HPMC in the human body and the absence of allergic reactions, which contributes to its profile as a non-irritating and non-sensitizing substance.