Argon E938
protective gas, preservative β Primarily natural/industrial.
Argon (Ar)
CAS: 7440-37-1
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.
? Did You Know?
Argon occurs naturally in Atmosphere (0.93% of air) and Third most abundant gas in Earth's atmosphere. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Argon 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, Argon has a "quantum satis" authorization β 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 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
An inert, colorless, odorless noble gas that makes up about 1% of Earth's atmosphere. Used as a packaging gas to displace oxygen and prevent oxidation in premium wine preservation and food packaging.
Manufacturing
Produced as a byproduct of oxygen and nitrogen production through cryogenic distillation of air. Argon is separated due to its different boiling point (-185.8Β°C).
Applications Beyond Food
Inert atmosphere for sensitive formulations
Packaging of sensitive medicines
Welding (inert gas shield), light bulbs, semiconductor manufacturing
Wine preservation systems, incandescent light bulbs