Is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose vegetarian?
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a semi-synthetic cellulose ether derived from alkali-treated plant cellulose reacted with methyl chloride and propylene oxide. It is used as a thickener, emulsifier, film-former, and as a vegetarian/vegan alternative to gelatin in hard capsules.
| Also known as | HPMC, Hypromellose, Methocel, Methylhydroxypropyl cellulose, Methylhydroxypropylcellulose, methylhydroxypropylcellulosum |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose |
| E number | E464 |
| INS number | 464 |
| CAS number | 9004-65-3 |
| CosIng ID | 34537 |
| Last reviewed | 16 April 2026 |
An ingredient is considered vegetarian if it avoids components derived from killing an animal.
Classifications are made to the best of our knowledge based on available scientific and regulatory sources. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of every entry, errors in the sources we draw from can always occur. This tool also cannot account for cross-contamination, which depends entirely on individual suppliers and producers. If you believe a classification is incorrect, you can report an issue.
