MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), also called dimethyl sulfone, is a small organosulfur compound, (CH3)2SO2, that occurs in trace amounts in some foods. Commercial MSM is synthetic: dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is oxidized, usually with hydrogen peroxide, and the product is purified by distillation or crystallization. It is sold as a white, odorless crystalline powder in several particle sizes.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
MSM purified by distillation, which suppliers describe as removing residual DMSO and other impurities.
MSM purified by recrystallization from solution; specify residual solvent limits.
Small particle size for capsules and drink mixes.
Larger crystals for bulk powder products and tableting blends.
Agglomerated MSM with better flow for direct compression.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Store in sealed containers in a cool, dry place. MSM is stable but can cake if it takes up moisture, especially fine grades. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, commonly with a retest of assay and moisture.
Record the purification method (distilled or crystallized), particle size grade and assay for each lot. Lots of different particle sizes do not flow or compress the same way, so do not substitute grades without a check.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
GRN 229, for methylsulfonylmethane notified by Bergstrom Nutrition, closed on February 18, 2008 with FDA having no questions, for the food uses and levels described in the notice.
Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)Health Canada's MSM natural health product monograph lists methylsulfonylmethane (dimethyl sulfone) from a synthetic source.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)The EU Novel Food Catalogue entry for methylsulfonylmethane (POL-NF-00503) gives it the status not novel in food supplements.
Source: ec.europa.eu (opens in a new tab)This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Distributor · City of Industry, CA
California ingredient supplier that sources branded and commodity ingredients for supplement and food makers, from amino acids and vitamins to magnesium L-threonate and a plant-based vitamin D3.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include distilled MSM, crystallized MSM, fine powder, flake or coarse crystal and granular (tableting) grade. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect assay (GC), residual DMSO and related substances, melting point and identity, loss on drying, heavy metals and particle size, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Store in sealed containers in a cool, dry place. MSM is stable but can cake if it takes up moisture, especially fine grades. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, commonly with a retest of assay and moisture.
GRN 229, for methylsulfonylmethane notified by Bergstrom Nutrition, closed on February 18, 2008 with FDA having no questions, for the food uses and levels described in the notice. Health Canada's MSM natural health product monograph lists methylsulfonylmethane (dimethyl sulfone) from a synthetic source. The EU Novel Food Catalogue entry for methylsulfonylmethane (POL-NF-00503) gives it the status not novel in food supplements.
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