Appears safe based on current evidence
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Carbon Dioxide
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Carbon Dioxide (E290) is rated "Appears Safe" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Carbon Dioxide?
Carbonation gas
Carbon Dioxide is classified as a Preservative additive. It is currently approved in all major regulatory markets.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
Check FDA database🇪🇺 European UnionEU
ApprovedCarbonation gas
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
Check Health CanadaVerify with Health Canada's permitted food additives list.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
Check FSSAIVerify with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
Check ANVISAVerify with Brazil's ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
Check GB 2760Verify with China's GB 2760 National Food Safety Standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Carbon Dioxide is classified as a preservative in the food additive regulatory framework. Current scientific evidence supports its safety when consumed within established limits. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Carbon Dioxide safe?
Carbon Dioxide has a safety rating of "Appears Safe". Appears safe based on current evidence
Is Carbon Dioxide vegan?
Carbon Dioxide is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Carbon Dioxide banned in Europe?
No, Carbon Dioxide is Approved in the EU.
What is Carbon Dioxide made from?
Carbonation gas
Did You Know?
Carbon dioxide (E290) is the gas in your soda. A global CO2 shortage in 2018 caused a beer crisis in the UK.
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Recommended Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carbon Dioxide safe?
Is Carbon Dioxide banned in any country?
What is Carbon Dioxide used for?
Sources & References
Regulatory data for Carbon Dioxide is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
Often Found Together
Other additives with the same safety rating from different categories
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