Propane-butane with nitrogen addition – what is it?
Propane-butane with added nitrogen (E943c) is a gas mixture in which the main components are propane and butane, two gaseous hydrocarbons that are used in various industrial applications. Nitrogen, which is an inert gas, is added to this mixture to increase its stability and ensure safe use. Propane-butane with nitrogen is commonly used in the food industry as a carrier gas and compressed gas for applications such as filling packaging or as a pressurized gas in food aerosols.
Properties of propane-butane with nitrogen (E943c)
Propane-butane with added nitrogen has compression properties, meaning that it is able to store a large amount of energy as a gas in closed containers under high pressure. Nitrogen, being an inert gas, prevents chemical reactions with other components in the package, making it an ideal carrier gas for processes that require chemical neutrality. In the food industry, this gas mixture is mainly used in the production of carbonated beverages, food aerosols (such as spray cream) and as a gas for filling packaging.
Uses of propane-butane with added nitrogen (E943c)
E943c is used in many areas of the food industry, where it is mainly used as a carrier gas and pressurized gas in the production of carbonated beverages, beer, soda and in packaging filling processes. Nitrogen-enhanced propane-butane is also used in the production of food aerosols, such as spray cream and other products requiring compressed gas. Its ability to create high-pressure gases in containers allows products to be efficiently stored under controlled conditions, preserving their freshness and quality for a long time.
Health benefits and safety of use
Propane-butane with nitrogen (E943c) is recognized as a safe food additive by relevant institutions such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The gas mixture is used in strictly defined quantities to ensure safety in food processes. Nitrogen, which is an inert gas, does not react with other food ingredients and does not affect their nutritional value or taste. However, there is a recommendation that propane-butane with added nitrogen should be used in containers and systems that comply with standards to prevent unwanted reactions during use.
Why is E943c valued?
Nitrogen-infused propane-butane (E943c) is valued in the food industry for its compressing, stabilizing properties and safe use as a carrier gas in the production of carbonated beverages, food aerosols and other pressurized products. Thanks to its stability and chemical neutrality, it is widely used in production where the property of preserving product quality for a long time is required, making it an indispensable ingredient in many food industries.
