Oxygen E948
packaging gas — Primarily natural/industrial.
Dioxygen (O₂)
CAS: 7782-44-7
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Oxygen?
Oxygen is a modified atmosphere packaging gas used specifically to maintain the bright red color of fresh red meat (oxymyoglobin), keep fresh produce respiring (extending freshness in some MAP systems), and in specialized packaging for ready-to-cook products. Unlike nitrogen and argon which displace oxygen, high-oxygen MAP (typically 70-80% O₂) is used for fresh red meat. JECFA and EFSA consider oxygen acceptable with no ADI specified. Universally approved. Oxygen MAP for meat became standard after consumer rejection of carbon monoxide-treated meat coloring in some markets.
? Did You Know?
Oxygen occurs naturally in Atmosphere (21% of air) and Produced by photosynthesis in plants. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Oxygen is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Oxygen has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Authorized as propellant and packaging gas
United States (FDA)
Approved for direct addition to food
Japan (MHLW)
Approved as packaging gas
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
A colorless, odorless gas essential for life. Makes up 21% of Earth's atmosphere. Paradoxically used as both a food preservative (in modified atmosphere packaging) and causes oxidation in foods.
Manufacturing
Produced industrially by cooling air to liquid state and separating oxygen from nitrogen through fractional distillation. Can also be produced through electrolysis of water or pressure swing adsorption.
Applications Beyond Food
Oxygen facials, aerosol propellant
Medical oxygen therapy, hyperbaric chambers
Steel production, chemical manufacturing, water treatment, rocket propellant
Oxygenated water products, aquarium aeration