Methyl acetate
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About methyl acetate
Methyl acetate can occur naturally in food (for example, fruits) and may be used as a flavouring agent in food.
However, methyl acetate is used mainly as a solvent in a variety of products available to Canadians. For example, it's used in:
- adhesives and sealants
- nail polish and remover
- cleansers and exfoliants
- spray paints and coatings
- paint strippers or removers
Methyl acetate is also known as acetic acid methyl ester.
Safety of methyl acetate
Under Canada's Chemicals Management Plan (CMP), we review and manage the potential risks that chemical substances can pose to individuals and the environment. The first stage of the review process is a draft chemical risk assessment.
We've completed the draft chemical risk assessment of methyl acetate. We're proposing that inhaling certain aerosol adhesives and paint strippers or removers may pose a risk to human health. It may result in developmental effects.
The potential health effects of methyl acetate are linked to its breakdown to form methanol. Methanol was also assessed under the CMP and was proposed to be associated with developmental effects.
The draft assessment found that methyl acetate:
- is not harmful to the environment
- does not pose a health risk from other uses or sources
What we're doing
Our assessment is not yet final. We're continuing to evaluate the potential risk posed by methyl acetate before we publish our final conclusion. This includes:
- tracking new information on exposures or hazards
- asking the public to comment on our draft assessment
- reviewing and using this information to help shape our final assessment
Currently, there are no restrictions on the use of methyl acetate in Canada.
If the proposed findings for methyl acetate are confirmed in the final assessment, we will consider:
- adding methyl acetate to the List of Toxic Substances
- this allows Canada to implement preventive or control actions for the life cycle of the substance, from the research and development stage through manufacture, use, storage, transport and disposal or recycling
- taking action to help reduce the exposure of Canadians to methyl acetate in aerosol adhesives and paint remover products
What you can do
Consumers are reminded to:
- read product labels and follow all safety warnings and directions
- follow the manufacturer's directions to dispose of the product safely
- provide any comments on our draft assessment and proposed risk management during the 60-day public comment period
If you're unsure if your product contains methyl acetate, contact the manufacturer.
If you're exposed to methyl acetate at work, talk to your employer and occupational health and safety (OHS) official about:
- relevant laws
- safe handling and storage practices
- requirements under OHS legislation and the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
For more information
- Measuring your exposure to chemicals
- Canada's system for addressing chemicals
- Overview of the Chemicals Management Plan
For industry and professionals
- Risk assessment of chemical substances
- Esters Group – information sheet (methyl acetate is being assessed as part of the Esters Group)