nitrous oxide
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | nitrous oxide |
| English name | nitrous oxide |
| INS/E number | INS 942 |
| Functional class | Antioxidant, Foaming agent, Packaging gas, Propellant |
| Year adopted | 1965 |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Nitrous oxide (N₂O), commonly known as "laughing gas", is a colourless, slightly sweet-smelling, chemically stable gas. It is used as a propellant, aerating agent and aerosol in products such as whipped cream chargers.
Source
Industrial：由硝酸铵热分解或氨氧化副产后经纯化、压缩制得
Why is it used?
- Propellant for whipped cream to produce rich, stable foam
- Aerating agent improving texture and mouthfeel of desserts and mousses
- Aerosol agent for even spraying of products
- Provides an inert atmosphere in packaging to inhibit microbes
Common Foods
- Aerosol whipped cream
- Mousses and desserts
- Carbonated/aerated beverages
- Aerosol food coatings
- Frozen desserts
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)
Concerns：
- 吸入滥用可致缺氧、神经损伤（维生素B12失活）
- 仅限作为食品气体使用，不可食用形态滥用
- 需管控包装中残留量
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 1886.XX 食品用气体标准
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 942)
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1545 (propellant, aerating agent)
- Codex GSFA (INS 942)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (942)
In a nutshell
Nitrous oxide is mainly used as a propellant and aerating agent for foods such as whipped cream and is safe in its intended use.
Consumer Advice
Nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas, is used in food mainly as a propellant in aerosol cans, such as whipped cream dispensers, to create light, fluffy foam quickly. Food-grade nitrous oxide is highly pure and safe when consumed with food as intended. Note that it also has anaesthetic properties and must never be inhaled outside food applications, as that is dangerous.
Dietary Restrictions
- Vegan: ✅
- Halal: ✅
- Kosher: ✅
Allergens
✅ Free from common allergens
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.