E290 · Carbon dioxide
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E290?
Carbon dioxide is the gas that gives carbonated drinks their fizz and is also used to extend shelf life by displacing oxygen in packaged foods (modified atmosphere packaging). It occurs naturally in the atmosphere and in human breath, and is essential for plant photosynthesis. As a food additive it is considered safe with no meaningful health concerns at the levels consumed in food and drink.
Also appears on labels as: Carbon dioxide, INS 290, E290, E 290, E-290, CO2, Carbonic anhydride, Carbonic acid gas, Dry ice, Compressed carbon dioxide, Food grade CO2, Carbon dioxide gas.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food and beverage levels.
- Carbonation can cause bloating or gas discomfort in some sensitive individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Is E290 safe?
Our overall verdict for E290 (Carbon dioxide) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E290 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Carbon dioxide — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E290 and why is it used?
Carbon dioxide is the gas that gives carbonated drinks their fizz and is also used to extend shelf life by displacing oxygen in packaged foods (modified atmosphere packaging). It occurs naturally in the atmosphere and in human breath, and is essential for plant photosynthesis. As a food additive it is considered safe with no meaningful health concerns at the levels consumed in food and drink.
Does E290 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Carbon dioxide.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.