Description
Carboxymethyl Chitosan (CMCS) – Shellfish Origin is a fully water-soluble chitosan derivative (CAS 83512-85-0) derived from high-purity shellfish chitin. Unlike conventional chitosan, CMCS dissolves completely in water at neutral pH no acid required making it the preferred choice for food preservation, edible coatings, pharmaceutical drug delivery, and sustainable packaging.
- 100% water-soluble at neutral pH — no acidic solvent needed
- Food-grade | CAS 83512-85-0 | Degree of Substitution ≥ 80%
- Strong antimicrobial & film-forming performance
- Shellfish-derived: shrimp, crab, and lobster shell origin
Allergen Notice: This product is derived from shellfish (crustacean). Not suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies. For a vegan/allergen-free alternative, see our Mushroom Carboxymethyl Chitosan.
What Is Carboxymethyl Chitosan (CMCS)?
Carboxymethyl Chitosan is produced by introducing carboxymethyl (–CH₂COOH) groups into the chitosan backbone through alkylation. The modification can occur at the N-position, O-position, or both, yielding three structural variants:
- N-CMCS – Carboxymethylation at the amino group; lower water solubility but stronger cationic character
- O-CMCS – Carboxymethylation at hydroxyl groups; excellent water solubility across a wide pH range
- N,O-CMCS – Dual substitution; highest solubility and broadest application range, the form supplied by Chitosan Global
This structural modification transforms chitosan from an acid-soluble biopolymer into a fully water-soluble, amphoteric material with enhanced bioactivity, improved film-forming ability, and superior industrial processability.
Explore the full range of chitosan types and derivatives available at Chitosan Global.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
| Product Name | Carboxymethyl Chitosan (CMCS) |
| CAS Number | 83512-85-0 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₀H₃₇N₃O₁₄ (repeating unit) |
| Molecular Weight | 543.5 g/mol (monomer unit) |
| Source / Origin | Shellfish (Shrimp, Crab, Lobster) |
| Appearance | White to pale yellow free-flowing powder |
| Solubility | 100% water-soluble (no acid required) |
| Deacetylation Degree (Food Grade) | ≥ 90.0% |
| Degree of Substitution (DS) | ≥ 80.0% |
| pH Range (Solubility) | Stable 4–12 |
| Form | Powder |
| Grade | Food Grade |
| COA Available | Yes, on request |
| Minimum Order Quantity | 25 g sample (free shipping) / 1 kg+ |
| Storage | Cool, dry, well-ventilated — avoid light and heat |
| Shelf Life | 24 months when stored properly |
Key Benefits of Shellfish-Derived CMCS
1. Complete Water Solubility
Traditional chitosan from shellfish requires acetic acid or other acidic solvents for dissolution a significant limitation in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing. CMCS eliminates this entirely, dissolving readily in water at room temperature across a wide pH range (4–12), dramatically simplifying formulation and reducing production costs.
2. Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity
CMCS exhibits potent activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as common food-spoilage fungi. Its cationic nature disrupts microbial cell membranes, making it a highly effective natural food preservative without synthetic additives.
3. Superior Film-Forming Properties
CMCS forms transparent, flexible, oxygen-barrier films ideal for edible coating applications. These coatings control moisture transfer, block microbial penetration, and extend product shelf life — all without altering taste, colour, or texture.
4. Biocompatibility & Biodegradability
Derived from a natural biopolymer, CMCS is non-toxic, biocompatible, and fully biodegradable. It meets clean-label requirements and supports sustainable formulation across food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.
5. Heavy-Metal Chelation
CMCS acts as an efficient chelating agent, binding heavy metal ions (Hg²⁺, Pb²⁺, Cu²⁺, Cd²⁺). This makes it valuable in water treatment and detoxification applications as well as industrial effluent purification.
CMCS vs. Regular Chitosan: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Carboxymethyl Chitosan (CMCS) | Regular Chitosan |
| Water Solubility | 100% — no acid required | Requires acetic acid (pH < 6) |
| pH Stability | Stable across pH 4–12 | Precipitates above pH 6 |
| Processing Ease | Dissolves at room temp | Requires acidified water + stirring |
| Degree of Substitution | ≥ 80% (food grade) | N/A — unmodified |
| Film-Forming Ability | Excellent — flexible barrier films | Good but brittle at higher MW |
| Antimicrobial Performance | Strong (broad spectrum) | Moderate |
| Industrial Scalability | High — direct aqueous mixing | Limited by solvent constraints |
| Application Range | Food, pharma, cosmetics, agri, packaging | Primarily agri & water treatment |
| Allergen Status | Shellfish-derived (allergen) | Shellfish-derived (allergen) |
| Vegan Alternative Available | Yes — Mushroom CMCS | Yes — Mushroom Chitosan |
Compare all available derivatives on our chitosan types overview page.
Core Applications & Use Cases
Food Industry — Preservation & Edible Coatings
CMCS is one of the most effective natural materials for chitosan shelf life extension in the food industry. It creates a semi-permeable, antimicrobial barrier on fresh produce, meat, seafood, and dairy products.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: 3–7 day shelf life extension demonstrated in multiple studies
- Meat & seafood: reduces surface bacterial count and inhibits lipid oxidation
- Dairy coatings: controls moisture loss and prevents mould growth
- Clean-label food preservation: replaces synthetic preservatives (sorbate, benzoate)
- Typical use concentration: 0.5–2.0% aqueous CMCS solution for dip or spray application
Learn more about chitosan in the food industry.
Pharmaceutical & Biomedical
- Drug delivery: pH-responsive controlled-release matrices for oral and topical drugs
- Gene delivery: CMCS/DNA nanoparticle complexes with low cytotoxicity
- Wound dressings: biocompatible hydrogel-forming films with hemostatic properties
- Tissue engineering scaffolds: supports cell adhesion and proliferation
- Ophthalmic formulations: mucoadhesive eye drops with extended retention time
Cosmetics & Personal Care
CMCS is widely used in premium skincare and haircare. Learn about chitosan in personal care products.
- Moisturising creams: forms a breathable moisture-retention film on skin
- Anti-ageing serums: promotes collagen-like matrix formation
- Hair conditioners: improves tensile strength and reduces breakage
- Sunscreen formulations: improves spreadability and UV-filter adhesion
- Shower gels and cleansers: gentle antimicrobial action + conditioning
Agriculture & Post-Harvest
Discover full application details on our chitosan in agriculture page.
- Seed coating: improved germination rates and early-stage disease resistance
- Foliar spray: activates plant systemic acquired resistance (SAR)
- Post-harvest coating: delays senescence in flowers, fruits, and vegetables
- Soil amendment: promotes beneficial microbial activity
Sustainable Packaging & Bioplastics
See our bioplastics and PLA packaging applications.
- Active packaging films: biodegradable, antimicrobial multilayer films
- PLA blend compatibiliser: improves flexibility and barrier properties
- Compostable food wrap: certified biodegradable replacement for plastic cling film
Water Treatment
- Heavy metal removal: chelates Hg²⁺, Pb²⁺, Cu²⁺, Cd²⁺ from industrial wastewater
- Dye adsorption: high affinity for anionic textile dyes
- Flocculant: effective coagulation aid in municipal water treatment
Typical Use Rates & Formulation Guide
| Application | Recommended Concentration |
| Fruit & vegetable edible coating (dip) | 0.5–1.5% w/v aqueous CMCS solution |
| Meat & seafood spray coating | 1.0–2.0% w/v aqueous CMCS solution |
| Skincare / cosmetic cream | 0.5–2.0% w/w of total formulation |
| Drug delivery nanoparticle synthesis | 0.1–1.0% w/v, adjusted by MW & DS |
| Agricultural foliar spray | 0.1–0.5% w/v, pH adjusted to 6.0–6.5 |
| Water treatment (heavy metal removal) | 50–500 mg/L depending on metal type |
| Packaging film casting | 2.0–4.0% w/v aqueous solution, cast + dried |
Note: Optimal concentration depends on molecular weight, degree of substitution, and specific application conditions. Contact us for technical guidance: steve@chitosanglobal.com
Shellfish CMCS vs. Mushroom CMCS — Which Should You Choose?
| Criterion | Shellfish CMCS (This Product) | Mushroom CMCS |
| Raw Material Source | Shrimp/crab/lobster shells | Oyster mushroom mycelium |
| Vegan / Allergen-Free | No — contains shellfish | Yes — fully vegan |
| Typical Purity | Very high — established process | High — sustainable process |
| Best For | Food, pharma, industrial | Cosmetics, dietary supplements, vegan brands |
| Regulatory Approvals | Well-established food-grade history | Newer; emerging regulatory acceptance |
| Price Point | Lower cost per kg | Premium pricing |
For vegan-certified or shellfish-allergen-free applications, see our Mushroom Carboxymethyl Chitosan.
Pricing, Ordering & Supply
| Package Option | Price | Shipping |
| 25 g Sample | $45.00 | Free shipping worldwide |
| 1 kg | $380.00 | 15% tariff + $125 FedEx |
| Bulk (5 kg – 100 kg+) | Contact for quote | Custom freight; global logistics |
- All orders include batch-specific COA (Certificate of Analysis)
- Large-volume supply and custom specification orders available
- OEM and white-label supply supported
- Global shipping — USA, EU, Asia, Middle East, Latin America
View full wholesale pricing and bulk supply options.
For large-scale quotations: steve@chitosanglobal.com | +1 423-202-6145
Why Source CMCS from Chitosan Global?
- Verified supply chain: We source from audited, characterised shellfish chitin processors — not anonymous spot-market brokers
- Batch-specific COA: Every order ships with a Certificate of Analysis confirming DS, deacetylation degree, moisture content, and heavy metal screen
- Technical support: Free 30-minute formulation consultation with purchase — we help you get your application right the first time
- Scalable from sample to industrial bulk: From 25 g R&D samples to multi-tonne contracts, we scale with you
- Responsive global logistics: FedEx priority shipping from US warehouse; bulk freight for large orders
- Transparent pricing: No hidden fees; custom quotes for volume buyers within 24 hours
Read more about our responsible supply chain standards and environmental health & safety commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) used for?
CMCS is used across multiple industries: food preservation (edible coatings, antimicrobial sprays), pharmaceuticals (drug delivery, wound care), cosmetics (moisturisers, hair conditioners), agriculture (seed coating, foliar spray), water treatment (heavy metal chelation), and biodegradable packaging.
What is the CAS number for carboxymethyl chitosan?
The CAS number for Carboxymethyl Chitosan is 83512-85-0.
Is CMCS truly 100% water-soluble?
Yes. Unlike regular chitosan which requires dilute acetic acid for dissolution CMCS (N,O-carboxymethyl chitosan) dissolves completely in water at neutral to alkaline pH. This makes it far easier to formulate into aqueous-based products.
What is the degree of substitution (DS) of your CMCS?
Our food-grade shellfish CMCS has a Degree of Substitution ≥ 80%. This indicates the percentage of glucosamine units that carry carboxymethyl groups. Higher DS = better solubility and broader pH stability. Contact us if you need a specific DS range.
What is the difference between N-CMCS, O-CMCS, and N,O-CMCS?
N-CMCS has carboxymethyl groups on the amino (NH₂) position; O-CMCS has them on the hydroxyl (OH) position; N,O-CMCS has both — this is the most water-soluble and industrially versatile form, and is the type we supply.
Is this product food grade? Does it have a COA?
Yes, it is food grade with deacetylation degree ≥ 90.0% and DS ≥ 80.0%. A batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available on request for every order.
Is shellfish CMCS suitable for vegetarians or people with shellfish allergies?
No. This product is derived from shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster) and is not suitable for people with shellfish allergies or those following a vegan diet. For a shellfish-free alternative, please see our Mushroom Carboxymethyl Chitosan.
What concentration of CMCS should I use for edible fruit coatings?
A 0.5–1.5% w/v aqueous solution is most commonly used for dip-coating fresh fruits and vegetables. For spray application, 1.0–2.0% is typical. Contact us for crop-specific recommendations.
Can I get a sample before placing a bulk order?
Yes. A 25 g sample ships free worldwide. This allows you to test solubility, film formation, and performance in your specific application before committing to a bulk purchase.
What is the shelf life and how should CMCS be stored?
Shelf life is 24 months when stored in a sealed container in a cool (below 25°C), dry, well-ventilated area away from direct light and heat. Avoid humid environments as moisture can cause clumping.
Do you offer bulk or wholesale pricing?
Yes. Bulk pricing is available for orders of 5 kg and above. View our wholesale pricing page or email steve@chitosanglobal.com for a custom quote within 24 hours.
How does CMCS compare to quaternary chitosan (HTCC)?
CMCS is anionic/amphoteric (negative charge at neutral pH) and excels in food preservation, edible coatings, and drug delivery. Quaternary chitosan (HTCC) is permanently cationic and is preferred for antimicrobial fiber applications and certain drug delivery systems. The choice depends on the required ionic interaction in your formulation.
Related Products & Resources
Explore other products and resources that complement Carboxymethyl Chitosan:
- Mushroom Carboxymethyl Chitosan — Vegan, allergen-free CMCS alternative
- Carboxymethyl Chitosan Hub Page — Full educational overview of CMCS
- Chitosan Edible Coating — Application guide for fresh produce coating
- Chitosan as a Food Preservative — How chitosan extends shelf life naturally
- Chitosan Shelf Life Extension — Detailed food industry use cases
- Chitosan in Agriculture — Dosages and crop protection applications
- Quaternary Chitosan — Permanently cationic derivative for antimicrobial textiles
- Chitosan Oligosaccharide — Low molecular weight, prebiotic derivative
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