Dimethyl Fumarate (DMF) Test

1. Dimethyl Fumarate

Dimethyl fumarate (English name: Dimethyl Fumarate), also known as (E)-2-butenedioic acid dimethyl ester, trans-butenedioic acid dimethyl ester ((E)-2-Butenedioic acid dimethyl ester), or allomaleic acid dimethyl ester, commonly known as mold-proof and fresh-keeping agent "Mold Killer No. 1," abbreviated as DMF. At room temperature, it appears as white crystals or crystalline powder. It is soluble in ethyl acetate, chloroform, acetone, and alcohols, and slightly soluble in water.

2. Main Uses

Dimethyl fumarate is highly effective and broad-spectrum in its antibacterial properties, with a special inhibitory effect on molds. It also exhibits insecticidal activity, along with contact and fumigation effects. It was once widely used for mold prevention, preservation, insect control, and freshness maintenance in food, beverages, feed, traditional Chinese medicines, cosmetics, fish, meat, vegetables, fruits, etc. Due to its corrosive and allergenic effects on humans, DMF is now classified as a non-edible substance and is prohibited from use in food (including flour products). Domestic studies indicate that DMF has strong antifungal capabilities, and its mold prevention effect in feed is superior to that of propionates, sorbic acid, and benzoic acid among acidic preservatives.

3. Hazards

DMF is toxic. Due to its corrosive and allergenic effects on humans, clinical trials have shown that DMF, when ingested through the esophagus, can cause corrosive damage to the human intestines and trigger allergies. Additionally, when the substance comes into contact with the skin, it can cause contact dermatitis, including itching, irritation, redness, and burns. It poses significant risks to human health, particularly harming the growth and development of children.

4. Testing Scope

Food, beverages, feed, traditional Chinese medicines, cosmetics, fish, meat, vegetables, fruits, and other products for mold prevention, preservation, insect control, and freshness maintenance.

5. Testing Standards

GB/T 28486-2012 Determination of dimethyl fumarate content in mold inhibitors

GB/T 26713-2011 Chemical test methods for footwear—Determination of dimethyl fumarate (DMF)

GB/T 28190-2011 Textiles—Determination of dimethyl fumarate

GB/T 26702-2011 Chemical tests for leather and fur—Determination of dimethyl fumarate content

REACH Regulation Annex XVII: On May 15, 2012, (EU) No 412/2012 was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. This regulation added DMF to REACH Regulation Annex XVII, Article 61, with the following restrictions: