Five people fell ill after being served dry ice in a Gurgram cafe, spitting blood and experiencing severe discomfort after consumption, due to its cold temperature of -78 degrees Celsius, which is much colder than water.

FSSAI states that dry ice is utilized as a cooling agent for food items like ice cream and frozen desserts, without mechanical cooling.

Dry ice swallowing can cause health emergencies like frostbite, breathlessness, mouth burns, and vomiting. Quick action and immediate cooling, or antacid relief, are crucial.

How does dry ice work?

At a temperature of -78.5°C, carbon dioxide (CO2) is solidified into dry ice. It is frequently used as a refrigerant, to provide smoke or fog effects in plays and entertainment, and to keep perishable goods fresh while they are being shipped.

Dangers of dry ice : “Dry ice can be extremely harmful if swallowed accidently due to its extreme coolness and the potential for carbon dioxide gas leaking. Eating dry ice may have unfavorable effects, such as frostbite, which causes necrosis when skin and tissue freeze. According to Dr. Ashutosh Shukla, Medical Advisor and Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Max Hospital in Gurugram, “direct contact with dry ice can cause tissue damage and symptoms like breathlessness, vomiting, burns to the mouth, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract, bloating, pain in the abdomen, and possibly asphyxiation if the gas replaces oxygen in the blood are reported.”

Neelima Bisht, Chief Clinical Nutrition at Paras Health Gurugram, emphasizes the importance of restaurants prioritizing the safety of their patrons by thoroughly vetting ingredients and adhering to strict protocols.

Dry ice and liquid nitrogen are not suitable for consumption and can cause severe harm if ingested. Dry ice can cause burns and internal injuries, while liquid nitrogen can cause internal damage, vomiting, and bleeding.

Preventing the risks associated with eating dry ice : Dr. Shukla says it’s imperative to take immediate action if someone inadvertently swallows dry ice.

Seek immediate medical assistance.

Do not induce vomiting.

In such cases, the patient should be administered a cooling agent or antacid for immediate comfort.

We also need to stabilize the patient’s vitals.

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