Oksijen

Detailed information

What it is & how it is made

A colourless, odourless and non-flammable diatomic gas (O2), produced by cryogenic distillation of air (at purity above 99%) or by pressure-swing adsorption.

Where it is used

Used as a packaging gas and propellant. In the EU it is authorised at quantum satis in all food categories, including foods for infants and young children, and may be used at the same level in food additive preparations, food enzymes and nutrient preparations.

Health note

In its 2025 re-evaluation (EFSA Journal 2025;23(8):9595) EFSA stated that oxygen and hydrogen are of low toxicological concern and that dietary exposure is very low, concluding that their use does not raise a safety concern. Consistent with the 1990 SCF evaluation, the Panel reported that the establishment of ADIs for these compounds is unnecessary.

Halal assessment

Its source is air; production is a physical separation process and no animal input is reported. Consult the manufacturer's halal certificate for a definitive answer.