A seemingly harmless experiment with a trendy food item has resulted in a serious health scare for a 12-year-old girl in Bengaluru. The child, whose identity has been protected, ended up undergoing surgery after consuming paan laced with liquid nitrogen.
Liquid Nitrogen In Food: A Recipe For Disaster?
Paan or betel leaf traditionally enjoyed in South Asia, has seen a new twist with the addition of liquid nitrogen. This extreme cooling agent creates a dramatic smoky effect, but health professionals warn of the hidden dangers lurking beneath the visual appeal. Intrigued by the novelty of the liquid nitrogen paan, the child consumed it at a wedding reception. Soon after, she began experiencing severe stomach discomfort. The pain worsened, prompting a rush to the hospital where doctors delivered a shocking diagnosis: perforation peritonitis, a condition characterised by a hole in the stomach lining.
The child underwent exploratory laparotomy, a surgical procedure to explore the abdominal cavity. This was coupled with intra-operative OGD (oesophagus-gastro-duodenoscopy), where a camera-equipped scope examined the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The surgery revealed a damaged area on the curvature of the child’s stomach, measuring approximately 4×5 cm. This section, deemed unhealthy, was subsequently removed. Thankfully, the surgery was successful, and the child is recovering.
Calls For Regulation
This fad in food poses a danger, and this incident is a wake-up call. While safe when handled correctly, liquid nitrogen demands strict protocols. Improper handling can leave the substance extremely cold when consumed, causing severe internal injuries as seen in this tragic case.
Dr. Vijay HS, the child’s surgeon, emphasised the importance of safety with liquid nitrogen. He insists that the substance must fully evaporate before consumption to prevent harm.
This Bengaluru incident has refuelled calls for regulations on using liquid nitrogen in food prep. Following a similar case where a boy had complications from “smoke biscuits” with liquid nitrogen, the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu enacted an order in April requiring complete evaporation of liquid nitrogen before serving food or drinks.
Also Read: What Are Smoke Biscuits And Why Did Tamil Nadu Ban Them?
This experience serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for awareness about the potential dangers of trendy food items. Vendors should prioritise safety by adhering to proper handling practices for liquid nitrogen.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (Representative Image)
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