Q & A - Is liquid nitrogen allowed in restaurants?

January 29, 2022

Q: Is liquid nitrogen allowed for use in/with food products in restaurants?

Photo credit

A: Yes, liquid nitrogen is Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) and would be allowed to be used. However, there may be safety concerns and safety equipment that would be required to use liquid nitrogen in a food facility. You need to obtain the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and speak with the manufacturer/supplier about safe handling, storage, and proper usage in the food facility.

You may also want to check with Oregon Health and Safety (OSHA) regarding any special requirements. Ultimately, it will be the responsibility of the operator to make sure their employees are properly trained in the safe use of liquid nitrogen and the equipment, and that their consumers will be receiving a safe product (with all the liquid dissipated) as well.