Carbon Dioxide (E290) — What You Need to Know
The score is an eNumbers.org editorial summary, not an official agency rating or medical advice. Start with the regulatory status and primary sources below.
What Is Carbon Dioxide?
Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is a natural component of the atmosphere and is produced by cellular respiration in all aerobic organisms. As a food additive, it is used to create the characteristic fizz in carbonated beverages, as a propellant in aerosol food products, and as a preservation atmosphere in modified atmosphere packaging. It is one of the most commonly consumed food additives in the world — every carbonated beverage contains it.
What Is It Used For?
Creates carbonation in soft drinks, beer, sparkling water, and sparkling wine. Used as a propellant in some aerosol food products. Used in modified atmosphere packaging to extend shelf life of fresh produce, meat, and bakery products.
Regulatory & Editorial Context
No safety concerns. Carbon dioxide is a natural metabolic product and is completely safe in food and beverage applications. The acid formed in carbonated beverages (carbonic acid) can contribute to tooth enamel erosion, but this is a property of acidity, not unique to CO2.
eNumbers.org currently assigns Carbon Dioxide an editorial context label of Safe with a score of 10/10. This is equal to the database average for propellants (10/10). Dataset reference year: 2014.
This score is not issued by EFSA, FDA, WHO or another regulator.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E290 or 'Carbon Dioxide'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Carbon Dioxide
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E290
- INS Number
- 290
- Category
- Propellants
- Origin
- Natural
- FDA Status
- GRAS
- EFSA Status
- Authorized
- ADI
- No limit
- Dataset Review
- 2014
Carriers, processing aids and product certification can change suitability. Verify the final label and certifier.