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Doctors have issued a stern warning against the consumption of dry ice and liquid nitrogen after a distressing incident in Gurugram left five diners hospitalized. The individuals were admitted to the hospital after mistakenly ingesting dry ice served as a mouth freshener at Laforestta Cafe in Sector 90, Gurugram, sparking concerns about the safety of using such substances in food and drinks.
Videos circulating on social media depicted the harrowing ordeal faced by the affected individuals, who reported vomiting blood and experiencing a burning sensation in their mouths following the ingestion of dry ice.
Dry ice, which is frozen carbon dioxide, is known for its extremely low temperatures, with a surface temperature plunging as low as -109.3 degrees Fahrenheit (-78.5 degrees Celsius). Dr. Tushar Tayal, Lead Consultant at the Department of Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, cautioned against the dangers posed by dry ice, emphasizing that prolonged contact with the substance can lead to severe skin damage and internal organ injuries.
Furthermore, both dry ice and liquid nitrogen are commonly used in the culinary world for their smoke effect, which adds a visual appeal to food and beverages. However, experts emphasize that these substances are not meant for consumption and can cause significant harm if ingested.
Neelima Bisht, Chief Clinical Nutritionist at the Dietetics Department of Paras Health Gurugram, echoed these concerns, highlighting the potential health risks associated with liquid nitrogen ingestion. Bisht emphasized that both dry ice and liquid nitrogen can induce vomiting, bleeding, and other severe health complications if mishandled or consumed.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), along with international regulatory bodies such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have classified dry ice and liquid nitrogen as lethal substances unsuitable for consumption.
In response to the incident, the FSSAI has urged food authorities across states and union territories to launch awareness campaigns aimed at educating food business operators and citizens about the safe handling of dry ice. The initiative seeks to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure public safety in the consumption of food and beverages.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Gurugram incident, medical experts emphasize the importance of exercising caution and adhering to safety guidelines to avoid the potential dangers associated with dry ice and liquid nitrogen.
