Methylcellulose

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As the popularity of plant-based diets continues to grow, companies are responding to the demand by creating new plant-based recipes. However, not all plant-based products are created equal, and some can have negative effects on your health and wellness. While meatless substitutes are beneficial for the environment, some plant-based proteins include highly processed ingredients.

One example of a commonly used plant-based additive is methylcellulose, a chemical compound that is frequently used as a thickener in foods such as bread and ice cream, as well as in over-the-counter laxatives. Although some companies use methylcellulose as a binding agent to create a meat-like texture in their plant-based products, CLEEN opts not to use this ingredient in their recipes. CLEEN's products are made with savory, sweet, original, hormone-free, soy-free, and non-toxic ingredients, which are easily digestible and perfect for incorporating into your favorite meals.

Although methylcellulose is derived from plants and vegetables, it is not entirely natural. Its development process involves a complex and refined method of heating cellulose with a chemical solution and treating it with methyl chloride, a colorless and odorless compound. This creates a gel-like texture that melts as it cools, making it an ideal binding ingredient for certain foods.

Like regular cellulose, methylcellulose is indigestible because our bodies lack the necessary enzyme, cellulase, to break it down. While cellulose is still an essential part of our diet because it helps move waste through our bodies by binding with water, methylcellulose is not organic or recognizable to our immune system. Thus, CLEEN's decision not to use methylcellulose in their products ensures that their foods are healthy and easily digestible, allowing individuals to enjoy a plant-based diet without compromising their wellness.