Carbon dioxide
Learn what Carbon dioxide (E290) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Carbon dioxide?
Used in soft drinks for the effect produced by gas bubbles. Also utilized in modified atmosphere packaging and as an active gas in gas containers.
Why is Carbon dioxide added to food?
Carbon dioxide (E290) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Carbonated drinks, pre-packaged foods.
Permitted quantity: The daily intake is unknown.
Is Carbon dioxide safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No known side effects.
Is Carbon dioxide banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Carbon dioxide
- Carbonated drinks
- pre-packaged foods
How to spot Carbon dioxide on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E290
- Carbon dioxide
Common misspellings to watch for:
- earbon dioxide
- carbon dioxlde
- cdrbon dioxide
- carbon dloxide
- carbon dioxide
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of carbonated drinks containing carbon dioxide can lead to bloating, abdominal discomfort, and flatulence. • May worsen pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, especially in environments with high CO2 concentrations. • Individuals with severe heart or lung conditions should avoid exposure to high levels of carbon dioxide. • Large-scale use for industrial or commercial purposes can disrupt atmospheric gas balance, posing long-term health risks.
Also known as
- earbon dioxide
- carbon dioxlde
- cdrbon dioxide
- carbon dloxide
- carbon dioxide
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Carbon dioxide? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E290 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Carbon dioxide
- Is Carbon dioxide safe to eat?
- No known side effects.
- Is Carbon dioxide banned anywhere?
- Carbon dioxide is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Carbon dioxide on a food label?
- Look for E290, Carbon dioxide in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: earbon dioxide, carbon dioxlde, cdrbon dioxide.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.