According to medical expert opinion according to medical experts, any drink or food item that is prepared by flushing or mixing liquid nitrogen can cause harm to humans.
A few years ago, we learned about the horrifying case of the Delhi businessman getting hospitalized after consuming a liquid nitrogen cocktail. This led to an abdominal hole. It also spurred discussions about the benefits of liquid nitrogen in beverages and food. It is also a matter of whether it should be prohibited to protect consumers. According to a government official on Friday, the Haryana government has announced the prohibition of flushing/mixing liquid nitrogen into any drink or food item. Department of Food and Drug Administration’s Director (Food Safety) Saket Kumar stated that the orders were issued under Section 34 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (Central Act 34, 2006). Based on medical experts, Kumar claimed any food or drink product that requires flushing or mixing liquid nitrogen can harm humans.
“Due to its low temperature, liquid nitrogen could be extremely damaging to body tissue, causing frostbite and cryogenic burning on contact. Moreover, if ingested, it could lead to severe internal damage, destroying tissues in the mouth and intestinal tract,” Kumar said.
He explained that as the liquid nitrogen evaporates, it releases an enormous amount of gas. It could cause stomach rupture should it be consumed in sufficient amounts. In the case of the Delhi businessman, the doctors who examined the victim claimed that their patient’s condition had become so severe that his stomach appeared similar to an “open book.”
Then why is liquid nitrogen being used in beverages and food items? Here are four quick facts
1. Liquid nitrogen is typically employed to create Ice creams since it aids in quickly freezing the ingredients. In contemporary gastronomy, it is utilized to make various inventive fast-frozen dishes with multiple components, such as oil.
2. It is much colder than 346 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, it is strongly advised not to come into contact with your hands without gloves or allow them to spill onto your body. It’s freezing and may cause frostbite or burns that are cryogenic.
3. Liquid nitrogen has a marvelous ability to expand upon release. One liter of liquid nitrogen could yield around 700 cubic liters of gas. When consumed, it can release large amounts of gas, which would then cause the stomach to burst.
4. A whiff of fog-like vapor will accompany cocktails or dishes served with liquid nitrogen. It is recommended that you consume it after it has dissipated.
