Food nitrogen is used to protect food from oxygen and thus slow down spoilage. When nitrogen displaces oxygen from the packaging, microbes and oxidation reactions cannot proceed as quickly. This is why it is used in packaging such as coffee, potato chips and many convenience foods where flavours and texture need to be preserved for as long as possible.

In liquid form, nitrogen also acts as a very fast freezing and cooling agent. When food is frozen instantly at a very low temperature, its structure is better preserved because large ice crystals do not have time to form. This is used, for example, in the processing of berries, fish and various prepared foods.

In the beverage industry, nitrogen is used to pressurise when a soft and creamy mouthfeel is desired without the sharpness of carbonation. Nitrogen is less soluble in liquid than carbon dioxide, which gives nitro beers and cold-distilled coffees, for example, their characteristic froth and mouthfeel.

Available grades:
Industrial nitrogen, food‑grade nitrogen, AWOlaser nitrogen, high‑purity nitrogen N50 (5.0), N60 (6.0), and BIP.

Packaging options:
Food‑grade nitrogen is available in gas cylinders.

Gases behave differently depending on their quality and state. Always consult the product’s safety data sheet before using the product. A safety data sheet is a document that conveys information about the properties, risks and safe use of a substance or mixture for industrial or professional use.

Risk of suffocation
An increase in the nitrogen concentration in the air you breathe poses a risk of suffocation. Asphyxiation occurs unnoticed and can be fatal. The nitrogen vaporised from the liquid is very cold. Cold nitrogen vapours are heavier than air and can accumulate in drains and basements, causing elevated nitrogen levels in the premises.

First aid
A person suffering from oxygen deficiency should be immediately moved to fresh air. If the victim is having difficulty breathing or is not breathing, administer artificial respiration as quickly as possible and call for help. When rescuing a victim, it is important to remember not to enter an oxygen-deprived area without breathing equipment.

Frostbite injuries
Liquid nitrogen and its vapours are extremely cold and cause
burns to the skin. Touching uninsulated parts of the equipment with bare skin may cause the skin to catch and tear. In the event of an accident, rinse the heavily damaged areas with lukewarm water and seek medical attention.

Unsuitable materials
Certain materials are unsuitable for use at low temperatures because they become brittle and lose their resistance to impact. Materials normally suitable for use at low temperatures are stainless steel, aluminium and their alloys.

Use
– When handling the substance, follow the instructions and safe working practices given
– The gas handler must be properly trained
– Use only carefully checked pressure regulators and other operating equipment suitable for this gas. If in doubt, contact Woikoske.
– Open the valve slowly to avoid pressure shock. About one turn is sufficient to open the cylinder.
– The valve is opened and closed by hand. The use of assistive devices is prohibited!
– The gas cylinder in use must be properly secured.
– Keep the valve outlets clean!
– Close the cylinder valve after each use and when the cylinder is empty.
– Always report damaged valves and cylinders to Woikoske

Transport
– The driver must be aware of the potential dangers of the load and know his duties in the event of accidents and incidents.
– Liquid nitrogen must be carried in open vehicles with the load compartment isolated from the cab
– The transport of gas cylinders shall be carried in an upright position
– The load must be secured
– Cylinders must not be knocked, thrown or dropped from the vehicle platform
– Attention to ADR regulations during transport

Storage
– Observe all legal and local requirements for the storage of cylinders.
– Store cylinders in a well ventilated area
– Cylinders should not be stored in conditions that promote corrosion
– Cylinders are stored upright and secured so that they cannot fall over
– Valve guards must be in place AT ALL TIMES
– Empty and full cylinders to be kept separate