FSSAI Issues Warning After Liquid Nitrogen Mishap

12-Year-Old Hospitalised in Bengaluru Highlights Dangers of Liquid Nitrogen Infused Foods – FSSAI Takes Action

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sounded the alarm following a disturbing trend of unauthorised use of liquid nitrogen in food and drinks, raising serious health concerns across the nation.

In a recent advisory, the FSSAI has sternly cautioned against the incorporation of liquid nitrogen into culinary creations at the point of sale, particularly in restaurants, bars, and food-serving establishments, including those catering at events such as weddings and fairs. The advisory comes in the wake of multiple instances where this chemical element has been employed "to make food items like ice creams, cocktails, meetha paan, bakery items, and desserts more visually appealing or to add theatrical flair during serving."

However, the FSSAI categorically states that such usage is unauthorized and poses significant health risks. Instances of consumers experiencing serious health issues and injuries after consuming items infused with liquid nitrogen have been reported, prompting the urgent need for regulatory intervention.

The urgency of the FSSAI's warning was underscored by a recent incident in May 2024, where a 12-year-old girl in Bengaluru was hospitalized after consuming a "smoky paan" infused with liquid nitrogen at a wedding event. Diagnosed with perforation peritonitis—a serious condition involving a hole in the stomach—the girl's case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by the ingestion of such low-temperature gases.

As the FSSAI intensifies efforts to curb the unauthorized use of liquid nitrogen in the food industry, consumers are urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution when encountering novel culinary presentations that may conceal hidden health hazards.