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dimethyl dicarbonate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namedimethyl dicarbonate
English namedimethyl dicarbonate
INS/E numberINS 242
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1991
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Dimethyl dicarbonate (velcorin) is a liquid preservative that rapidly hydrolyses in beverages to trace methanol and CO2, strongly inhibiting yeasts, moulds and some bacteria.

Source ​

Industrial：由光气与甲醇反应生成，纯化制得二甲基二碳酸盐

Why is it used? ​

  • Effectively inhibits yeasts and moulds in drinks
  • Rapidly degrades to harmless products in the matrix
  • Keeps non-alcoholic and low-acid beverages microbiologically stable
  • Can be added in-line before filling

Common Foods ​

  • Carbonated soft drinks
  • Fruit and flavoured juices
  • Sports drinks
  • Tea drinks
  • Some wines

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.6 mg/kg bw

Concerns：

  • 水解产生微量甲醇（但远低于安全阈值）
  • 仅限特定饮料用途
  • 对皮肤/眼睛有刺激性（操作层面）

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 242)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.575 (Dimethyl dicarbonate)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 242)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Dimethyl dicarbonate)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-0.6 mg/kg bw)

In a nutshell ​

Dimethyl dicarbonate is a rapidly hydrolysing preservative for beverages that is effective with negligible residues.

Consumer Advice ​

Dimethyl dicarbonate (DMDC, trade name Velcorin) is a highly effective cold sterilising agent that instantly inactivates yeasts and bacteria during beverage production. It is used in fruit juices, tea drinks, wine and soft drinks and quickly breaks down into carbon dioxide and trace methanol, leaving no meaningful residue in the finished product. It is approved by regulators in many countries and is safe when used according to good manufacturing practice. Residues in compliant drinks are negligible, so consumers need not worry.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.