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The facts: Dimethylpolysiloxane is restricted in European Union (E900 permitted; ADI not specified based on current data), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Dimethylpolysiloxane on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: McDonald's cooking oil (french fries), Cooking oils (commercial), Some beverages.
TL;DR: Dimethylpolysiloxane is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | — |
| Where it shows up | McDonald's cooking oil (french fries), Cooking oils (commercial), Some beverages, Various processed food manufacturing |
Dimethylpolysiloxane (PDMS, polydimethylsiloxane) is a silicone-based polymer used as an antifoaming agent in food and beverages. It prevents the formation of foam during food manufacturing and cooking. It is the same base material used in silicone cookware, medical devices, and contact lenses.
PDMS prevents foam formation in cooking oils, particularly in fast food deep frying operations. McDonald's adds PDMS to its frying oil to prevent excessive foaming during deep frying, extending oil life and improving cooking consistency. It is also used in beverages, juice manufacturing, and various food processing applications.
Dimethylpolysiloxane is generally considered non-toxic. It is not absorbed by the gut and passes through the digestive system unchanged. The FDA permits it at up to 10 ppm in cooking oils. EFSA's evaluation found no evidence of toxicity at permitted food use levels. There are no established cancer or reproductive toxicity concerns with PDMS at food use concentrations. The compound is the same base polymer used in many safe medical applications including contact lenses and breast implants (though the medical grade is different purity). The main environmental concern is PDMS persistence in the environment, as it is not readily biodegradable. Primary consumer concern is psychological rather than toxicological: the fact that it is used in both McDonald's frying oil and Silly Putty (which also contains PDMS) generates public attention, but the chemistries are actually different grades of the same polymer family.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Dimethylpolysiloxane with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Yes. Dimethylpolysiloxane is restricted in European Union (E900 permitted; ADI not specified based on current data). The FDA still allows it in the US.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in McDonald's cooking oil (french fries), Cooking oils (commercial), Some beverages, Various processed food manufacturing. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Dimethylpolysiloxane.
Modified food-grade versions of natural oils can be selected to minimize foaming. Physical defoaming processes and vacuum technologies can reduce the need for chemical antifoaming agents. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Dimethylpolysiloxane or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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