What is E242?
E242 is Dimethyl Dicarbonate — a synthetic cold-sterilisation agent for drinks, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E242 (Dimethyl Dicarbonate)?
E242 is the E-number for dimethyl dicarbonate, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200–E299). Additives in this group prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. A synthetic cold-sterilisation agent for drinks. Like every E-number, E242 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E242 in detail below.
Where is E242 found?
E242 is typically used in soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E242) or by its full name, dimethyl dicarbonate. Common foods that may contain E242 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E242 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E242 safe?
E242 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E242.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E242 vegan?
E242 is vegan. A synthetic cold-sterilisation agent for drinks, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E242 →Is E242 halal?
E242 is halal. A synthetic cold-sterilisation agent for drinks, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E242 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E242 in food?
E242 is Dimethyl Dicarbonate — a synthetic cold-sterilisation agent for drinks, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E242 safe to eat?
Yes. E242 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E242 vegan?
E242 is vegan. A synthetic cold-sterilisation agent for drinks, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E242 halal?
E242 is halal. A synthetic cold-sterilisation agent for drinks, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).