Watch
E242 — Dimethyl dicarbonate
Preservative
E242 (Dimethyl dicarbonate), a preservative, is rated "watch": fine in moderation. A cold-sterilant sprayed into soft drinks, iced teas and wine. It breaks down almost entirely into methanol and CO2 within hours, which is why the residue concern is limited — but methanol is the by-product, and intake adds up across a daily habit.
Why it's rated “watch”
A cold-sterilant sprayed into soft drinks, iced teas and wine. It breaks down almost entirely into methanol and CO2 within hours, which is why the residue concern is limited — but methanol is the by-product, and intake adds up across a daily habit.
Risk rating: Watch
Mixed evidence or a specific concern (gut, allergy, or contested safety data). Not alarming, but worth keeping an eye on rather than eating without limit.
Frequently asked questions
Is E242 (Dimethyl dicarbonate) safe?
A cold-sterilant sprayed into soft drinks, iced teas and wine. It breaks down almost entirely into methanol and CO2 within hours, which is why the residue concern is limited — but methanol is the by-product, and intake adds up across a daily habit.
What are other names for E242?
E242 is also known as dimethyl dicarbonate, dmdc, velcorin.