Carbon dioxide
The bubbles in fizzy drinks.
- Category
- Preservatives
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Carbon dioxide (E290) is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless gas. In the food industry, it is the ingredient that provides the carbonation (fizz) in soft drinks and beers.
How it is used in food
Displaces oxygen in packaging so food spoils slower, and makes drinks fizzy.
Commonly found in- Carbonated water (sparkling water)
- Sodas and soft drinks
- Beers and ciders
- Modified atmosphere packaging (to keep bagged salads fresh)
Health and safety
None (leaves your body with a burp).
In drinks it dissolves as carbonic acid, making the fizz and the tingle on your tongue.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | GRAS. |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E290
Also printed asCO2
How it is made
It is typically captured as a byproduct of industrial processes (like ammonia production or alcohol fermentation), purified to food-grade standards, and pressurized.
- Capture — Captured from fermentation or industrial exhaust and heavily purified.
Worth knowing
It is the exact same gas you exhale.
Conclusion
Seeing an E-number can look scary on an ingredient list, but E290 is just harmless fizz. The only side effect of consuming too much is a harmless burp.
Is it in what you are buying?
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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