Dimethylpolysiloxane
The short version
A food-grade silicone anti-foaming agent — stops fryer oil from foaming (hence fast-food fries) and appears in gum.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
A food-grade silicone (polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS).
How it's used
An anti-foaming agent — it stops cooking oil from foaming and spattering in deep fryers (its use in fast-food fries), and controls foam in jams and drinks. Also a component of some chewing-gum bases.
Safety profile
ADI 1.5 mg/kg body weight (JECFA). Inert and essentially unabsorbed; considered safe at the tiny levels used.
Physical & chemical properties
Clear, viscous silicone oil, insoluble in water, spreading to break surface foam.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted in the EU, the US (GRAS), and globally with limits.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.