E290: Carbon Dioxide
Main role: carbonation and packaging atmosphere
Also listed as: CO2, carbon dioxide gas
What is E290 (Carbon Dioxide)?
Carbon dioxide supplies carbonation in drinks and can be part of controlled food packaging atmospheres. Dissolved gas, packaging gas, and solid dry ice are different forms with different uses.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is carbonation and packaging atmosphere. Gas mixtures are chosen for a particular product and package. A protective atmosphere supports a storage system; it does not replace temperature control, hygiene, or the instructions printed on the pack.
Food and formulation examples
- Carbonated drinks
- Modified-atmosphere packaging
- Food gas mixtures
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E290, E 290, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include CO2, carbon dioxide gas. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Carbonation alone does not reveal a drink's sugar or acid content. Dry ice handling is a separate temperature hazard and should not be inferred from a carbonated-drink ingredient declaration.
Is E290 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E290 as Carbon dioxide. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.