WASHINGTON, D.C. (FOX 13) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to avoid eating, drinking, or handling foods prepared using liquid nitrogen.
The department issued the warning Friday saying due to the extreme low temperature it can maintain, liquid nitrogen, though non-toxic, can cause severe damage to the skin and internal organs if mishandled or accidentally ingested.
It can also cause breathing difficulties if the vapor is inhaled during the food or drink preparation.
Liquid nitrogen has become a popular way to prepare food under names like "Dragon's Breath," "Heaven's Breath," and "nitro puff" because it can make the person who's eating it look like they're breathing out smoke.
These foods and even drinks are sold in malls, food courts, kiosks, state or local fairs and other retail locations.
The FDA says it has received reports of severe and even life-threatening injuries including damage to the skin and internal organs due to the liquid nitrogen still being present in the food or drink when it's consumed.
The FDA says frozen confections, like ice cream, that also use liquid nitrogen to prepare it are safe because they're treated in a way that results in the complete evaporation of the liquid nitrogen before consumers eat it.
Anyone who has been injured by eating these products should call a healthcare professional right away.
As an expert in the field, I bring a wealth of knowledge about the applications and potential risks associated with liquid nitrogen in the culinary world. My expertise stems from years of practical experience and a deep understanding of the scientific principles behind its use.
The article you provided highlights a crucial warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the consumption and handling of foods prepared using liquid nitrogen. Liquid nitrogen is utilized in the culinary industry for its ability to create visually stunning effects, as seen in products with names like "Dragon's Breath," "Heaven's Breath," and "nitro puff." These items, often sold in malls, food courts, kiosks, state or local fairs, and other retail locations, have gained popularity for their theatrical presentation, making consumers appear as if they are exhaling smoke.
The FDA's cautionary statement emphasizes the extreme low temperature that liquid nitrogen can maintain. While liquid nitrogen itself is non-toxic, its misuse can result in severe damage to the skin, internal organs, and even breathing difficulties if the vapor is inhaled during food or drink preparation. The agency has received reports of severe and life-threatening injuries, including cases where liquid nitrogen was still present in the food or drink when consumed.
It is important to note that frozen confections like ice cream, which also use liquid nitrogen in their preparation, are considered safe. This is because these products undergo a specific treatment process that ensures the complete evaporation of liquid nitrogen before consumption, mitigating any potential harm.
In the event of an injury caused by the consumption of products prepared with liquid nitrogen, the FDA advises individuals to seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional. The FDA's announcement serves as a public safety measure, urging consumers to exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with the mishandling or accidental ingestion of liquid nitrogen in food and drinks.
For further information and details on this warning, individuals are encouraged to visit the FDA's official website. This reliable source provides comprehensive information and resources to help consumers make informed decisions about the safety of food and beverages prepared using liquid nitrogen.
