Nitrogen
What is Nitrogen?
Nitrogen is a colourless, odourless gas that makes up about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is produced industrially by fractional distillation of liquid air.
Is Nitrogen vegan?
Nitrogen is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Nitrogen a major allergen?
Nitrogen is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Nitrogen used for?
Nitrogen gas is often used in food packaging to displace oxygen, which helps to preserve food by preventing oxidation and the growth of aerobic microorganisms.
Is Nitrogen safe?
Nitrogen is a naturally occurring element and is essential for life.
Why it's used
Nitrogen gas is often used in food packaging to displace oxygen, which helps to preserve food by preventing oxidation and the growth of aerobic microorganisms. It is commonly found in dairy desserts, whipped creams, and chocolate mousses, where it can be used to create a lighter texture and appearance.
Health notes
Nitrogen is a naturally occurring element and is essential for life. As a food additive (E941), it is authorised on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations in Great Britain and is permitted for use in a range of foods. EFSA has evaluated nitrogen and it has an established acceptable use. It is not associated with adverse health effects at typical intake levels.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
Allergen info
Nitrogen is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Nitrogen
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