Health Canada recalls nitrous oxide canisters it says were sold for inhalation

(Source: Amazon)

Health Canada is recalling a series of products distributed across the country that it says were designed for consumers to inhale the nitrous oxide gas inside.

In a recall alert issued Wednesday, Health Canada said it’s recalling three unlicensed Whip-it! brand gas canisters.

The small metal pressurized tanks contain nitrous oxide — commonly known as laughing gas. Similar products are widely used in commercial kitchens to recharge reusable whipped cream dispensers that look like this:

In kitchens, the gas is used to instantly froth sweetened cream into whipped cream, but Health Canada says the Whip-it! canisters are sold for inhalation as a recreational drug.

Nitrous oxide is also used during medical or dental procedures for its sedative effects, and Health Canada says there are serious risks for those who use the gas recreationally and without medical supervision.

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In a public advisory earlier this year, Health Canada said the gas can cause euphoria and relaxation, but has serious potential side effects, including loss of consciousness, anemia, impaired bowel and bladder function, heart problems, asphyxiation, blood clots and nerve damage.

“Repeated use increases the likelihood of severe outcomes and may result in lasting neurological damage, even after stopping use. Regular use can also lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms,” Health Canada says.

The federal government says the gas has various street names, “such as ‘whippets,’ ‘hippy crack,’ ‘NOS’ and ‘nang.’”

It’s illegal to advertise and sell nitrous oxide products for inhalation, but Health Canada says it’s aware that some are being sold online and in retail stores — with some even featuring flavoured gas, which is not permitted.

Health Canada said the recalled Whip-it! canisters were sold by a Calgary, Alberta-based company KDK Distributors, which appears to also sell cannabis smoking accessories.