FMC to Expand Microcrystalline Cellulose Capacity

FMC BioPolymer (Philadelphia) has unveiled plans to add approximately 5,400 metric tons of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) capacity over the next three years. The $30 million expansion and facilities upgrade effort will begin immediately at FMC BioPolymer plants in Newark, DE, and Cork, Ireland.

"This expansion will help us maintain our global leadership position and help FMC maintain scale for future cost competitiveness," said Ted Butz, FMC BioPolymer GM. "We intend to continue to build capacity to meet the growing market needs of our pharmaceutical and food customers, and to supply our customers with the highest quality products. We are committed to maintaining our strong worldwide leadership position with Avicel MCC."

MCC is a highly purified form of cellulose used primarily as a binder in pharmaceutical tablets. The product is also used as a food additive to emulsify, stabilize and thicken frozen desserts, salad dressings and nonfat yogurt, and is used in fat substitute applications.

Edited by Scott Hegenbart