12-year-old hospitalised in Bengaluru after eating liquid nitrogen paan. Here is why consuming it can prove fatal

Food innovations and fancy plating often allure us, but the side effects of many innovations, which might look pleasing to the eye, can be dangerous. One such innovation is the use of liquid nitrogen, which recently led to a 12-year-old girl in Bengaluru suffering a hole in her stomach after consuming liquid nitrogen paan.

By the end of April, the girl developed stomach discomfort, leading to a diagnosis of perforation peritonitis—a hole in her stomach. It is reported that the girl wanted to try the trend of foods infused with liquid nitrogen because it looked interesting to her.

Doctors emphasized the need for immediate surgery to prevent further complications. The girl underwent an exploratory laparotomy with intra-op OGD scopy and sleeve gastrectomy, removing a portion of her stomach measuring about 4x5 cm on the lesser curvature.


What is Liquid Nitrogen?
Liquid nitrogen is nitrogen in a liquid state at an extremely low temperature, with a boiling point of -196°C (-320°F). It is produced through the fractional distillation of liquid air, separating nitrogen from other components such as oxygen and argon.

Uses of Liquid Nitrogen
In addition to cryogenic and medical applications, liquid nitrogen is used in the food industry for rapid freezing of food items to preserve texture, flavor, and nutrients, and to create unique culinary experiences.

Side Effects of Consuming Liquid Nitrogen
Ingesting liquid nitrogen can cause severe burns and frostbite to the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach lining. Contact with the skin or eyes can also cause severe cold burns and frostbite. Additionally, the gas released from liquid nitrogen can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, leading to asphyxiation.

Expert Recommendations
Experts advise against using liquid nitrogen, especially in the food industry. If used, customers should be educated about its consumption, the correct way to use it, and its potential side effects.