Tylose Powder or CMC Most refer to these as being the same exact product and interchangeable, which it is to a point. It is a synthetic version of Gum Tragacanth, which is pretty expensive compared to CMC or Tylose. Gum Tragacanth has a slightly yellow color to it; whereas, Tylose or CMC is a white powder. Gum Trag gives you a slightly yellowish paste if used to make gum paste or edible glue.Gum Traganth is a natural product whereas, CMC or Tylose is a man made product. CMC is the main ingredient in Tylose; but, Tylose also has sugar and dextrin. Yes, they can be used interchangeably, but CMC is pure carboxymetnyl cellulose which is stronger; so, therefore requires less to be added. CMC and Tylos are thickening agents used in many industries in many different strengths. Be careful! When purchasing it, make sure it is food grade. CMC is also used for greenware in ceramics and is toxic; so, it cannot be opened in the pressence of food. It is also used in the mining and drilling industries again in very high strengths.For Cake People, we use it to make Gum Paste, Edible Glue and to stiffen fondant for figure modeling. Some believe that just adding Tylose to fondant makes it a gum paste. However, it isn't as strong as gum paste nor will it roll as thin as gum paste.
