Nitrous oxide
A safe and effective aerosol propellant.
- Category
- Propellants
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Also known as "laughing gas", used as a propellant for aerosol foods like whipped cream.
How it is used in food
Uniquely soluble in fat, it dissolves into cream under pressure and expands on release, whipping cream instantly; it also displaces oxygen, protecting the product from spoilage.
Commonly found in- Whipped cream aerosols
Health and safety
Safe when consumed in food; it dissolves into the fat of the cream and expands when released.
EFSA re-evaluated nitrous oxide as a food additive and propellant and raised no safety concern for its food uses, with no numerical ADI. Its known hazards relate to deliberate inhalation abuse, not dietary exposure.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E932
Worth knowing
Nitrous oxide's fat solubility is exactly why it — and not nitrogen or CO2 — is used in whipped cream chargers; carbon dioxide would make the cream taste sour.
Conclusion
A safe and effective aerosol propellant.
References
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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