What to Know
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Suffolk County has banned the sale of “Dragons Breath” liquid nitrogen in food establishments [hhmc]
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“Dragons Breath” are liquid nitrogen puffs are a food novelty made by freezing cereal puffs or similar foods in liquid nitrogen [hhmc]
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Officials say consuming the liquid nitrogen puffs could cause injury[hhmc]
Suffolk County has banned the sale of “Dragons Breath” liquid nitrogen in food establishments regulated by the countys Health Department, citing its alleged potential for causing harm to those who consume it.
On Thursday, the countys Board of Health unanimously adopted a resolution that identified “Dragons Breath,” as an adulterated food and because of its potential to cause serious injury to consumers, it considers the product as unsafe for human consumption.
“This action will prevent dangerous chemicals from winding up in the hands of children in Suffolk County,” Steve Bellone, the Suffolk County executive, said Friday.
“Dragons Breath” is a food novelty made by freezing cereal puffs or similar foods in liquid nitrogen. When the frozen cereal is chewed, the cold condenses moisture in the consumer's exhaled breath — giving them the appearance of breathing smoke.
Getty Images
This food trend has allegedly caused harm, such as reported instances of frostbite and tissue damage when residual liquid nitrogen is left in a serving cup and fingers are used to remove the product. Additionally, officials say that ingesting of liquid nitrogen can cause damage to the mouth, esophagus, and stomach.
Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken said that the “significant potential to cause serious injury which far outweigh the novelty feature of the product.”
The New York State Association of County Health Officials has expressed concern over “Dragons Breath” to the New York State Department of Health. Other counties such as Clinton and Cattaraugus have or are considering not permitting its sale.
Charles Krupa/AP
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