E900: Dimethylpolysiloxane and Methylphenylpolysiloxane

What is E900?

E900 covers dimethylpolysiloxane and methylphenylpolysiloxane, silicone-based compounds better known as food-grade silicone oils. They are clear, odourless liquids that are chemically very stable.

Origin and production

These polysiloxanes are made synthetically from silicon, which is obtained from sand (silica), and from methyl groups derived from methanol. They contain no plant or animal materials.

Why is it used?

E900 is used mainly as an anti-foaming agent: tiny amounts prevent foam forming in frying oils, during fruit juice and jam processing, and in some powders and drinks. It appears in vegetable and sunflower oils used for frying, frozen fried products, pizzas, cakes and protein powders.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

E900 is synthetic and suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher concerns.

Safety and regulation

Dimethylpolysiloxane is authorised as a food additive in the European Union, with maximum levels for specific foods. EFSA re-evaluated it in 2020 and did not identify a safety concern at reported uses, while noting areas where further data would be useful.

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