Microcrystalline cellulose, also abbreviated as MCC, is actually a non-fibrous-based microparticle that’s water-insoluble. However, this free-flowing-based crystalline powder is slightly soluble in moist alkali solutions (which are 20 percent or less). This powder is important when it comes to diluting acids as well as a good number of organic solvents. Microcrystalline cellulose can be used in the production of pharmaceutical excipients, fillers, and capsule dilutes. Other applications of Microcrystalline cellulose include the production of flow acids, disintegrate agents, manufacture of absorbents, and production of anti-sticking agents. On that note, here is all you need to know about Microcrystalline cellulose, including its uses and benefits.
Uses
Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is a pure product that’s extracted through cellulose depolymerization. Derived from natural cellulose, this powder is tasteless and odorless. They’re commonly utilized as pharmaceutical excipients or tablets’ disintegrating agents.
When it comes to the food industry, microcrystalline cellulose can be utilized as a base ingredient in functional foods. Plus, it can serve as an excellent food additive. Moreover, MCC has been proven to be a great thickener and emulsifier in the paint industry.
Easy To Disintegrate
Once it’s ingested, microcrystalline cellulose can be easily disintegrated in the stomach and quickly absorbed by the body.
No Moldy
The cellulose contained in microcrystalline cellulose contains Beta-glucose and alpha-starch. Thus, amylase enzymes can’t easily attack cellulose. And this is what makes MCC resistant to mold infestation.
No Drug Interactions
The cellulose found in MCC doesn’t easily interact with carrying drugs. Therefore, it’s safe for human consumption. The only limitation is the high price.
How Is It Made?
The main method of making microcrystalline cellulose is acid hydrolysis. Here, hydrochloric acid is used to convert cellulose into microcrystalline cellulose. The condition for this process is 2M hydrochloric acid, 15 minutes, as well as 105, digress Celsius temperature. The reactive amorphous areas are used to selectively hydrolyze the cellulose. Here, the crystallites are released. These crystallites are dispersed using mechanical means.
Is It Safe For The Skin?
Microcrystalline cellulose is not toxic when inhaled. Still more, it doesn’t cause any issues when it comes to taking it orally. The same applies when it’s applied on the intraperitoneal and subcutaneous routes. Still, more, this substance isn’t toxic when it is applied through the dermal routes. This makes microcrystalline cellulose a good product when it comes to healing a myriad of skin-related complications. However, it’s important to choose the best microcrystalline cellulose products for maximum benefits.
cellulose In Vitamins
Cellulose is a common ingredient in most vitamins. From Vitamins D to Vitamin B-12, microcrystalline cellulose has so much to offer. It helps prevent the vitamins from reacting before being consumed. Vitamins, on their own, can react before consumption. To prevent this reaction, microcrystalline cellulose is added.
Cellulose is used in making vitamins. The use of cellulose makes it easier to bottle as well as swallow the vitamins.
Cellulose
Cellulose in vitamins, according to manufacturers, is actually fiber. This fiber is the same molecule commonly present in grains, veggies, as well as fruits. The body cannot digest fiber. This is because the body doesn’t have the necessary enzymes to digest fiber. The enzyme used to digest fiber is referred to as cellulose.
Benefits
Of course, fiber is an important component of the human digestive system. For instance, it can regulate the digestive tract, bind cholesterol, as well as get rid of toxins. It can also stabilize the blood sugar level in your skin. However, the fiber and cellulose present in vitamins don’t give impressive results. This is because to feel the real effect, you need a lot of fiber in a day. For instance, 25 grams per day and 38 grams per day of fiber are needed in women and men respectively. However, vitamin pills are effective. This is because a smaller number of grams are required to give you the same effects.
Production
Microcrystalline is often produced in a controlled environment. It’s tasteless and odorless. The white powder is designed to add form, as well as, hardness to your tablets. Commonly referred to as MCC, microcrystalline cellulose serves as an incredible diluent. It’s also an effective bulking agent. Thus, you can always add it to your tablets and capsules for enhanced weight. Due to its minimal bulk density, MCC has easy flow characteristics that allow each ingredient to be spread consistently throughout the mixture. And when the mixture is consistent, all tablets will have the quantity and quality.
Highly Efficient
Microcrystalline cellulose is highly efficient. It does its job really well. Plus, it works perfectly with other popular excipients. And that’s the main reason why most manufacturers integrate it into their formulas. Binders are extremely important to the tableting process as they enhance toughness. Even more, compressibility affects various aspects of the final product. MCC is directly compressible. It can be easily compressed into tablets without needing to granulate a mix, hence speeding up the overall manufacturing process.
Cellulose Properties
The two outstanding features of microcrystalline cellulose are compressibility and binding. Besides, MCC is safe for human consumption and is widely utilized in the tableting industry as an excipient. It’s highly rich in dietary fiber and doesn’t contain any calories. Above all, MCC is inert and can therefore interfere with other substances. Thus, if these are the features you’re looking for, then MCC could be an excellent choice for you. It’s sought-after due to its exceptional binding, as well as, diluent qualities. With this product, your formation process will be made easier than ever. Packed with unique benefits and uses, MCC is your ultimate choice for a binding agent.
Key Takeaway
Cellulose is a highly beneficial substance to the human body. Plus, it comes with properties like likeability to bind and compressibility. There are lots of products that contain cellulose. In a nutshell, cellulose is a key component in most manufacturing sectors, including food production.
The Bottom-Line
Microcrystalline cellulose can be used in a number of industrial applications. From the manufacturing of absorbents to the production of capsule diluents, microcrystalline cellulose has so much to offer in the manufacturing industry. The above are common uses of Microcrystalline cellulose.
