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Methane Dichloride

Level 4 — Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Methane Dichloride is a solvent processing aid — Solvent to extract chemicals; decaffeinate coffee

Also: Methylene Chloride

What it does

Solvent to extract chemicals; decaffeinate coffee

Where you'll see it

Spice oleoresins, hops extract, decaffeinated coffee

What the research says

Experimental cancer-causing and tumor-causing additive. Human systemic effects: numbness, altered sleep, convulsions, euphoria, changes in cardiac rate. Causes birth defects in animals. Eye and severe skin irritant.

Regulatory status

  • Notes: FDA 30 ppm spice oleoresins, 10 ppm decaf coffee

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): an experimental cancer-causing and tumor-causing additive