Recent news from New York has sparked a conversation about a new regulation: minors are now banned from purchasing whipped cream spray. According to the Washington Times, the state has enacted legislation prohibiting the sale of whipped cream spray to individuals under 21.
This law, which took effect in November 2021, initially flew under the radar. However, a recent viral photo has brought it into the spotlight. The image, widely shared on social media, shows a notice in a New York convenience store that reads: “You must be 21 years or older to purchase whipped cream.”
Not all whipped cream sprays are affected by this new regulation—the ban explicitly targets nitrous oxide cartridges used to charge whipped cream cans. In the U.S., these cartridges, often called “whippets,” create fluffy whipped cream. However, concerns have arisen because nitrous oxide, a colorless, transparent gas, can cause nerve paralysis and hallucinations when inhaled.
Often called “laughing gas” or “happy gas” due to its euphoric effects, nitrous oxide can be dangerous when misused. Senator Joseph Addabbo, who proposed the ban on selling whipped cream cartridges to minors, emphasized the need to tackle nitrous oxide abuse in communities. He remarked that while nitrous oxide is a legal substance, it can be hazardous when misused. He added that the legislation would help prevent young people from easily accessing dangerous materials.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reports that one in five American teenagers has experimented with inhalants like whippets. Misuse of these substances can lead to serious health issues, including brain damage and sensory impairments. Similarly, in South Korea, the dangers of nitrous oxide have been highlighted due to incidents involving “happy balloons.” As a result, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has banned the manufacturing, importing, and distributing of small nitrous oxide cartridges since last year.
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