Health Ministry Working to Curtail Misuse of Nitrous Oxide

Jerusalem, 21 July, 2025 (TPS-IL) — In light of reports received by Israel’s Ministry of Health about an increase in the misuse of nitrous oxide (N₂O) gas, also known as “Whipped Cream Gas,” the Ministry is issuing new and stricter guidelines for importers of gas cylinders.

The gas, sometimes sold illegally at parties, fireworks, kiosks and websites – sometimes under misleading trade names – has become a substance that is abused in recent years, especially among teenagers, explained the Ministry. Inhaling the gas can cause serious neurological damage, loss of consciousness, anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, hallucinations and a drop in blood pressure – even with a single use.

Last week, a bill was approved for first reading to define nitrous oxide gas as a “dangerous substance,” which will include restrictions on import, sale, and use – including volume limits, obtaining a permit, and sale to adults only.

Alongside the bill, the Ministry of Health is actually applying strict restrictions on imports, which will prohibit the import of containers with a volume exceeding eight grams for food use, and the import of smaller containers will only be permitted subject to the presentation of binding documents, including declarations of purpose, technical specifications, product labels, traceability data, and sales invoices.