Helium E939
propellant, protective gas β Primarily natural/industrial.
Helium (He)
CAS: 7440-59-7
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?
Helium occurs naturally in Natural gas deposits (radioactive decay of uranium/thorium) and Atmosphere (0.0005%). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Helium 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, Helium 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 and propellant
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
The second lightest and second most abundant element in the universe. An inert, colorless, odorless noble gas. Used in food packaging due to its inert properties and low density.
Manufacturing
Extracted from natural gas deposits where it accumulates from radioactive decay of uranium and thorium. Separated through cryogenic processing. Non-renewable resource on Earth.
Applications Beyond Food
Aerosol propellant (rare)
Breathing mixtures for deep-sea diving
MRI machines, welding, semiconductor manufacturing, rocket fuel pressurization
Party balloons, airships/blimps