Methylene chloride is a hazardous solvent used in food manufacturing, including the production of decaffeinated coffee. In May 2024, the EPA announced it would ban most industrial uses of the chemical, but the FDA still allows its use in food.
EPA bans most uses of methylene chloride
Methylene chloride is a solvent used for a variety of industrial, commercial, and food manufacturing purposes. This chemical is used as a paint stripper and in the manufacture of refrigerants, pharmaceuticals, and furniture. It is also used to decaffeinate coffee and make spice extracts.
However, methylene chloride is a dangerous chemical that has caused dozens of untimely deaths. And while this chemical is only found in trace amounts in decaf coffee, long-term exposure is correlated with cancer risk.
On May 8, 2024, EPA finalized a rule banning consumer use of methylene chloride and most commercial and industrial uses under EPA's jurisdiction. The rule includes several exceptions, including electric vehicle batteries, the manufacture of certain types of environmentally sustainable chemicals, laboratory use, and military use. For permitted uses, EPA will require workplace safety protections. The final rule will take effect on July 8, 2024, but uses of the banned chemical will be phased out over two years.
However, this final rule does not affect the current use of solvents in food because the use of this chemical in food falls under the jurisdiction of FDA, not EPA.
CSPI urges FDA to ban methylene chloride in food
On March 11, 2024, CSPI sent a letter to FDA expressing support for two petitions filed by the Environmental Defense Fund and other organizations. The petition requested that the FDA revoke approval for the use of methylene chloride and three other solvents: benzene, ethylene dichloride, and trichlorethylene (TCE).
All four of these solvents have been linked to cancer, and the FDA itself has acknowledged this. If research shows that an additive causes cancer in humans or animals, it is no longer safe. The Delaney Clause, a provision of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, prevents the FDA from approving hazardous substances for use in food.
With the EPA's recent decision to ban methylene chloride for most uses, it is clearer than ever that the FDA needs to remove methylene chloride and other dangerous solvents from our food supply. While the cancer risk from using these solvents in food may be small, there is simply no need to do so because safer alternatives are available. For example, coffee can easily be decaffeinated with water.
How can we help?
CSPI continues to push the FDA to protect workers and consumers from exposure to dangerous chemicals such as methylene chloride. To get involved, sign the petition below to ask FDA to update food additive regulations and promote a safer and more transparent food system.
Sign the petition for safer food
