It is widely applied in the fields of food, medicine, cosmetics and industry. Its security has been evaluated by multiple international authoritative institutions.

The following is a detailed summary:

1. The safety of international authoritative institutions conclusion JECFA (fao/who JECFA) CMC - Na as "acceptable daily intake (ADI) without limit" of the food additive (i.e., no significant risk of normal use). The FDA (us food and drug administration) as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe), allowing for food (such as thickener, stabilizer), and approved for oral drugs and medical devices. EFSA (the European food safety authority) to confirm its safety, but Suggestions for certain people, such as children, the high intake of further study (EFSA - Q - 2017-00400). China national standard (GB 1886.232 2016) approved as food additives, limited standards (according to different food category).

2. The toxicological studies support: the acute toxicity of LD ₅ zero (rat oral) > 5000 mg/kg, belongs to actually non-toxic grade. Chronic toxicity: long-term animal studies did not show cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive toxicity. Metabolism: no digestion and absorption by human body to prototype through the bowels, no risk accumulation.

3. The potential risks and controversy intestinal sensitive crowd: high doses can cause abdominal distension or diarrhea (because of its water imbibition may affect intestinal peristalsis). Fine powder (nm) CMC: in recent years, with the animal studies suggest may affect intestinal flora and intestinal barrier (e.g., Nature study, 2021), but such risks are not found in conventional food grade CMC. Allergic reaction: a few case reports of allergic (such as contact dermatitis), but very rare. Add 4. Use suggested food: according to national standards (e.g., usually 1% or less) in drinks. Medicine/cosmetics: accord with pharmacopoeia or makeup .