E900 · Dimethylpolysiloxane
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Dimethylpolysiloxane yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E900?
Dimethylpolysiloxane (also called E900a) is a silicone-based compound used as an anti-foaming agent in food processing, such as frying oils, beverages, and confectionery, to prevent excess foam during manufacturing. It is also widely used in cosmetics and personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, and skin creams for its smoothing, conditioning feel. It is approved by EFSA and the FDA for use in small, controlled amounts.
Also appears on labels as: Dimethylpolysiloxane, E900a, E 900a, E-900a, INS 900a, Polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS, Dimethylsiloxane polymer, Silicon oil, Silicone oil (food grade), Methyl silicone oil, Dimethyl siloxane.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food use levels; it passes through the body largely unabsorbed.
- Some samples have historically contained trace formaldehyde or other processing impurities, which regulators monitor via purity specifications.
Research behind the verdict
- Re‐evaluation of dimethyl polysiloxane (E 900) as a food additive — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF), EFSA Journal (2020). The Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF) provided a scientific opinion re‐evaluating the safety of dimethyl polysiloxane (E 900) as a food additive. The Panel concluded that there is no safety concern for the general population when dimethyl polysiloxane (E 900) is used as a food additive at the reported use levels. The Panel established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 1.5 mg/kg body weight per day.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E900 safe?
Our overall verdict for E900 (Dimethylpolysiloxane) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E900 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Dimethylpolysiloxane — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E900 and why is it used?
Dimethylpolysiloxane (also called E900a) is a silicone-based compound used as an anti-foaming agent in food processing, such as frying oils, beverages, and confectionery, to prevent excess foam during manufacturing. It is also widely used in cosmetics and personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, and skin creams for its smoothing, conditioning feel. It is approved by EFSA and the FDA for use in small, controlled amounts.
Does E900 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Dimethylpolysiloxane.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.