Dimethyl dicarbonate in certain alcoholic beverages (ICS Code: 67.220.20)

Notice of Modification to the List of Permitted Preservatives to Extend the Use of Dimethyl Dicarbonate in Certain Alcoholic Beverages. Language(s): English and French. Number of pages: 3 and 4

Health Canada's Food Directorate completed a premarket safety assessment of a food additive submission seeking approval for the use of dimethyl dicarbonate (DMDC) as a preservative in fruit wine, cider, and perry (a product of the alcoholic fermentation of pear juice).

DMDC is already permitted for use as a preservative in unstandardized water-based non-alcoholic beverages and wine.

The results of the premarket assessment support the safety of DMDC for its requested use in these beverages. Consequently, Health Canada has enabled the use of DMDC described in the information document below by modifying Part 3 of the List of Permitted Preservatives, effective 27 July 2021.

The purpose of this communication is to publically announce the Department's decision in this regard and to provide the appropriate contact information for inquiries or for those wishing to submit new scientific information relevant to the safety of this food additive.