E242

Preservative.

Dimethyl Dicarbonate, DMDC (E242) is manufactured in Germany and sold under the trade name Velcorin. It is not a preservative in the traditional sense rather it is termed a 'cold sterilant'. This is because it is injected into the product stream immediately prior to the filler, where it then kills any organisms which may be present in the sealed container. It is mainly used in ready to drink products e.g. fruit drinks and sport drinks.

Used as a preservative in wine as a replacement to E220 Sulphur Dioxide, inactivating wine spoilage yeasts. It is also used to stabilise non alcoholic beverages such as carbonated or non carbonated juice beverages, isotonic sports beverages, iced teas and flavoured waters. Not recommended for consumption by children.

Banned in Australia