The FDA says foods and drinks prepared with liquid nitrogen could cause serious injury.
These treats — like “Dragon’s Breath” and “Nitro Puff” — have liquid nitrogen added to them immediately before consumption so that once the consumer eats them, they can breathe out a smoke-like vapor.
HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 16: Chef Wolfgang Puck exhales vapor after taking a bite out of a Lava Cake sphere made in liquid nitrogen at the 89th Annual Academy Awards Governors Ball Press Preview at The Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 16, 2017 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
The cool effect has made liquid nitrogen treats popular across the country, but some incidents have been reported.
A mother in Florida said her young son tried the treat at a mall and ended up having a severe asthma attack.
According to the FDA, liquid nitrogen is non-toxic, but it can cause severe damage to skin and internal organs if mishandled and inhaling the vapor may make breathing difficult, especially for individuals with asthma.
Severe and life-threatening injuries caused by liquid nitrogen still present in the food or drink have been reported.
More information can be found at fda.gov.