Understanding MOSH and MOAH: Hydrocarbon Contaminants in Products and Lubricants

"MOSH" and "MOAH" are acronyms used in the context of mineral oil contaminants and refer to different types of hydrocarbons that can be found in mineral oil-based products like lubricants, cosmetics, and food packaging materials:

1. MOSH (Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons):

   • MOSH refers to Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons.
   • These hydrocarbons are primarily composed of saturated aliphatic (non-aromatic) compounds.
   • They are often used in various applications, including as lubricants in machinery and equipment.
   • MOSHs are considered less of a concern in terms of potential health risks compared to MOAHs.

2. MOAH (Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons):

   • MOAH stands for Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons.
   • MOAHs are composed of aromatic hydrocarbons, which contain benzene rings or other aromatic structures.
   • Aromatic hydrocarbons can be more complex and potentially contain compounds that are of greater concern due to their potential health risks.
   • MOAHs have been a subject of regulatory scrutiny, especially in the context of food contact materials, where they may migrate into food products.

The distinction between MOSH and MOAH is important in various industries, particularly in the food industry, where the potential migration of these hydrocarbons from packaging materials into food products can be a concern for food safety. Regulatory bodies in some regions have set limits or guidelines for the levels of MOAHs in food contact materials to ensure consumer safety. It's essential to understand these distinctions and manage these contaminants appropriately in various applications to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.


"MOSH and MOAH free" lubricants

"MOSH and MOAH free" lubricants refer to lubricants that are formulated to be free from Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons (MOSH) and Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH). These terms are used to assure consumers that the lubricants do not contain these specific types of hydrocarbons, which can be of concern in certain applications, particularly in the food industry and for products that come into contact with human skin.

Here's what these terms mean:

1. MOSH-Free Lubricants:

   • MOSH stands for Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons, which are hydrocarbons primarily composed of saturated aliphatic (non-aromatic) compounds.
   • MOSH-free lubricants are formulated without the inclusion of MOSH components.
   • They are often used in applications where the presence of saturated hydrocarbons is a concern, such as in cosmetics or products intended for direct skin contact.

2. MOAH-Free Lubricants:

   • MOAH stands for Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons, which are hydrocarbons composed of aromatic structures or benzene rings.
   • MOAH-free lubricants are formulated without the inclusion of MOAH components.
   • These lubricants are used in applications where the potential migration of aromatic hydrocarbons into food products or other materials could be a concern.

The goal of "MOSH and MOAH-free" lubricants is to reduce the risk of potential health or safety issues associated with these hydrocarbons in specific applications. Manufacturers may use alternative base oils or additives to achieve lubricants that are free from MOSH and MOAH, depending on the intended use and regulatory requirements.

To explore "MOSH and MOAH-free" lubricants, please contact Davor for more information and product offerings.