Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a water-soluble cellulose derivative that can produce robust and durable films for a variety of uses as well as control the rheology and viscosity of aqueous systems. Initially, CMC was introduced as a substitute for starch and natural gums but frequently CMC emerged as a promising derivative with characteristic surface properties for various advanced applications. The use of this cellulose derivative is thus widespread in the production of paper, the processing of detergents, textiles, protective coatings and drilling fluids. The food, drug, and cosmetic sectors all frequently employ the refined variety, commonly known as cellulose gum. Currently, CMCs are also used in biomedical engineering, as diverse conductive agents in the textile, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Moreover, CMCs are effectively used in wastewater treatment to remove heavy metal contaminants, radionuclides, dyes, etc. which is also an emerging area of research. Additionally, several hybrid materials including a particular variety of super-absorbents based on CMC has been reported and there is still a great opportunities that more will be created in the future .Based on these significant updates, this review covers advancement in CMC applications with major focus on food industry and wastewater treatment