Sodium carboxymethyl starch, also known as sodium carboxymethyl starch or CMS-Na, is a food additive widely used in the food industry. As a type of modified starch, it has unique physical and chemical properties that allow it to perform multiple functions in food. The following is a detailed introduction to food-grade sodium carboxymethyl starch.

　　I. Basic Properties

　　Sodium carboxymethyl starch is an anionic starch ether, usually appearing as a white or yellow powder, odorless, non-toxic, and resistant to mildew. When the degree of substitution is greater than 0.2, it is easily soluble in water, forming a colloidal solution. In addition, it is stable to light and heat, but its stability is poor in acid, generating insoluble free acid, leading to a decrease in viscosity.

　　II. Main Applications

　　Thickening agent: Sodium carboxymethyl starch is mainly used as a thickening agent in food, increasing the viscosity and texture of food. It is widely used in products such as milk, beverages, frozen foods, fast food, cakes, and syrups.

　　Suspending agent: Because sodium carboxymethyl starch can form a colloidal solution, it also has a suspending effect, preventing the sedimentation of solid particles in food.

　　Emulsifier: Sodium carboxymethyl starch can also be used as an emulsifier, helping immiscible substances such as oil and water mix evenly.

　　Stabilizer: In food, sodium carboxymethyl starch can stabilize the structure and texture of food, preventing changes during processing and storage.

　　Other applications: In addition, sodium carboxymethyl starch also has a variety of functions such as shaping, film-forming, puffing, preservation, acid resistance, and health benefits. When producing low-calorie foods, it also produces ideal results because it is physiologically inert and has no caloric value.

　　III. Precautions for Use

　　Dissolution method: According to the required concentration, add water to sodium carboxymethyl starch proportionally and stir well for complete dissolution. Or, first moisten with a small amount of ethanol, then dissolve with water for better results.

　　Storage method: Sodium carboxymethyl starch should be stored in a ventilated and dry place, paying attention to moisture, fire, and high-temperature prevention.

　　Incompatibility: Sodium carboxymethyl starch has incompatibilities with certain substances (such as ascorbic acid) and should be avoided when mixing with these substances.

　　In summary, food-grade sodium carboxymethyl starch, as an important food additive, has broad application prospects in the food industry. With the increasing demand for food safety and health, the production and application of sodium carboxymethyl starch will become more standardized and stringent.