A carbon dioxide shortage is causing problems for breweries and beer drinkers alike. Carbon dioxide is a key ingredient in beer making, and supplies of CO2 are short. For some beer makers the price has tripled as availability has dwindled. One of the largest gas production hubs is in Mississippi which has a natural source of CO2. While carbon dioxide is still being produced there, some of it has elevated levels of hydrocarbons that do not meet standards for food and beverage use. The CO2 shortage is also affecting food manufacturers who use the gas for food chilling and freezing. Carbon dioxide is generally recognized as safe by FDA per 21 CFR 184.1240 which includes a purity requirement.

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Picture Credit Susanne Kuehne

Posted on 12 August 2022