What is E942?
E942 is Nitrous Oxide — a gas produced synthetically, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.
What is E942 (Nitrous Oxide)?
E942 is the E-number for nitrous oxide, one of the packaging gases & propellants group of food additives (E290–E949). Additives in this group protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers. A gas produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E942 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E942 in detail below.
Where is E942 found?
E942 is typically used in bagged salads, crisps, fizzy drinks, squirty cream and modified-atmosphere packs. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E942) or by its full name, nitrous oxide. Common foods that may contain E942 include:
- Bagged salads
- Crisps
- Fizzy drinks
- Squirty cream and modified-atmosphere packs
Full guide: foods containing E942 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E942 safe?
E942 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E942.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E942 vegan?
E942 is vegan. A gas produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E942 →Is E942 halal?
E942 is halal. A gas produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E942 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E942 in food?
E942 is Nitrous Oxide — a gas produced synthetically, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.
Is E942 safe to eat?
Yes. E942 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E942 vegan?
E942 is vegan. A gas produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E942 halal?
E942 is halal. A gas produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).