Is liquid Nitrogen, used by restaurants in ice-creams safe to consume?

The food world is full of innovations and one of the innovations that has been ruling the world of the internet is liquid nitrogen. From restaurants to bars, you will find this trend everywhere and it is largely liked by people on social media as well. But, do you know what is it and whether it is safe for human consumption or not? Let us tell you the truth. (Image: istock)

As per experts, liquid nitrogen used in the food industry is actually nitrogen gas, which is in a liquid state and used at an extremely low temperature. If reports are to be believed, it has been used in the global food industry since the 1800s to freeze food products and preserve them quickly, and in recent years, it is being used to make the food look presentable. (Image: istock)

The most important characteristic of this colourless and odourless liquid is, it freezes rapidly and thus, is commonly used to make ice-creams. As far as other culinary uses of liquid nitrogen are concerned, it is mostly used in molecular gastronomy, where the liquid nitrogen is added as a topping to make desserts and cocktails look eye-pleasing. It creates a sort of white cloud-like smoke that adds drama to the plating and is used by high-end restaurants and bars. (Image: istock)

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As per the US Food and Drug Administration, food prepared with liquid nitrogen is not good for health. According to the FDA, consuming foods topped with liquid nitrogen can cause serious injury including internal organ damage. As per FDA, it may result in injuries related to skin and internal organs. Explaining the side effects, FDA states that handling or eating food items immediately after adding liquid nitrogen to it, even after the nitrogen evaporates, can lead to such injuries. Also, inhaling the vapor coming out of liquid nitrogen can cause breathing difficulty, especially in people with asthma. (Image: istock)

As per food experts, liquid nitrogen can be unsafe if handled wrongly, but if you use it in the right way with the right technique, there may not be any harm. So, will you try liquid nitrogen-based drinks or food from now onwards? Share your thoughts in the comment section. (Image: istock)

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