Super Antioxidant

Carboxymethylcellulose was the second emulsifier (with polysorbate 80) in Chassaing et al. 2015 (Nature, PMID 25731162), which showed mucus-barrier thinning, a microbiota shift toward pro-inflammatory species, low-grade inflammation, and metabolic syndrome in mice. Chassaing 2022 (Gastroenterology, PMID 34774538) tested CMC directly in a randomized controlled human feeding trial and found reduced microbial diversity and bacterial encroachment into the normally sterile mucus layer in a susceptible subset of participants. EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation could not establish a safe level due to data gaps. For a purely textural excipient, the gut-barrier risk profile is unfavorable when safer thickeners are widely available.

Beta-carotene used in small amounts as a colorant/antioxidant.

Juice or juice concentrate used primarily for natural color and flavor in gummies

Generic tablet coating declaration where the label does not itemize the coating's components; modern aqueous film coatings are typically cellulose-based (HPMC) with a plasticizer

Calcified red seaweed used as a whole-food tablet base and natural calcium/magnesium source (common in food-based multivitamin lines)

A salt of stearic acid used as a lubricant in tablet and capsule production

Fine silica powder used to prevent clumping

A cellulose-derived polymer used for film coating and binding.