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MSM Bulk Types

Methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM) is found naturally in tomatoes and milk. In these foods, however, concentrations are too small to commercially use for nutritional supplements. Supplemental MSM of high purity is chemically induced, and identical to MSM found in nature. After the chemical process produces commercial MSM, it is purified through distillation and crystallization.

  1. Distilled MSM

    • All MSM supplements are manufactured using a chemical synthesis process of two raw materials, dimethyl sulfoxide and hydrogen peroxide. The reaction creates a new molecule: MSM. After the chemical reaction, a purifying process is used to remove impurities. Distillation is preferred for producing high-purity MSM, since heat is the best source to separate compounds by their respective boiling points.

    Crystallized MSM

    • Crystallized MSM costs less as a process, but increases risk of impurities contaminating the final MSM product. Crystallization depends on both the quality of the water used in the crystallization process and the quality standard employed in manufacturing. Crystals by definition contain occlusions where water-based impurities can be trapped. Consistent product formulation and strict manufacturing procedures can largely protect from such contamination, but MSM from China and India are suspect as a source of more impurities.

    Powder

    • Powdered MSM is sold in bulk as crystal-like flakes or granules. MSM powder can be mixed in animal feed, and consumed by humans most often by mixing in something that masks MSM's bitterness. MSM powder from quality brand names like Jarrow Formulas, Nature Made and Country Life are the best assurance of getting pure supplemental MSM.

    Capsules

    • MSM is most often sold in capsules.

      Bulk MSM is most prevalent in capsule form. Capsules have the advantage of a precise dosage. Capsules also protect the MSM powder within, ensuring that the MSM has a water content of less than 0.1 percent., meeting the KFT (Karl Fischer Titration) standard. Capsules also protect against the bitter taste of MSM.

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