E290 - Carbon Dioxide
Author: Ivan Red Jr.
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
January 27, 2026
CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)
Feature: Carbon dioxide is used to cool or freeze products. In the normal state it is a colorless gas with a slight sour aroma and taste. The density of the preservative is 1.5 times
Characteristic
Carbon dioxide (E 290) is used for cooling or freezing products. In the normal state it is a colorless gas with a slight sour aroma and taste. The density of the preservative is 1.5 times higher than that of air. The additive dissolves in water, the carbon dioxide solution and water form carbonic acid. E 290 is part of the air and in various sources of minerals. Artificially, carbon dioxide is produced by firing limestone and burning coke, and is also released during the fermentation of alcohol.
E 290 is permitted for use in the manufacture of certain beverages, and in the food industry is permitted within certain limits.
Use
The preservative is used in baking confectionery and as a leavening agent for dough. Liquid carbon dioxide cylinders are used for fire extinguishers when welding wires. In the solid state, carbon dioxide is used to keep the cold in the freezers. This dioxide is widely used in the production of soft drinks, has a beneficial effect on their properties and freshness, in winemaking - to regulate the fermentation process, as well as in the manufacture of some wines to which it is added, in the production of juices - low concentrations. for better storage.
Impact on humans
Carbon dioxide (E 290) accelerates the process of absorption of other substances in the gastric mucosa. This property manifests itself in the form of rapid absorption of alcoholic beverages. Prolonged inhalation of gas (more than 3%) is dangerous to human health. Taking large amounts of the food supplement can lead to toxicity.
- E926 Chlorine dioxide
- E551 Silica
- E171 Titanium dioxide
- E220 Sulfur dioxide