The Shocking Truth: Why Cream Chargers Were Banned
If you’re a whipped cream fanatic, you’ve probably heard about the recent ban on cream chargers. The question on everyone’s mind is why? In this article, we will uncover the shocking truth behind why cream chargers were banned and what this means for whipped cream lovers in Australia.
1. The Basics Of Cream Chargers
Let’s start with the basic. What are cream chargers? Cream chargers are small-sized cylinders filled with nitrous oxide or N2O that are used to whip cream. These chargers are inserted into whipped cream dispensers to create high-pressure gas, which is then used to froth the cream and create delicious whipped cream.
2. The Problem With Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is often used as anesthesia in hospitals and dental clinics. It also has recreational use as it can induce euphoria and relaxation when inhaled. A small study by the Victorian Poisons Information Centre showed that more than 50% of fatalities and hospitalizations linked to nitrous oxide were among those aged 18-24. Nitrous oxide is popularly known as “hippie crack” and is being sold on the black market for recreational use. Nitrous oxide is also a greenhouse gas and is contributing to climate change.
3. The Dangers in Using Cream Chargers Recreationally
The recreational use of nitrous oxide has become widespread in Australia, especially among young people. The problem is, inhaling nitrous oxide can have serious and even fatal consequences. The Australian Medical Association says that inhaling nitrous oxide can cause dizziness, confusion, and can even lead to coma and death.
4. The Ban on Cream Chargers
Because of the rising popularity of nitrous oxide as a recreational drug, cream chargers have been included in the list of restricted substances under the Poisons Standard. The Poisons Standard is a list of substances and medicines that are regulated in Australia.
5. The Impact to Whipped Cream Lovers
The ban on cream chargers has impacted whipped cream lovers across Australia. Unlike in other countries where you can purchase them in supermarkets, cream chargers are only sold in specialty stores in Australia. This means that the availability and affordability of whipped cream have been affected. It’s also forced people to get creative with alternative whipping methods like hand-whisking or using electric mixers.
6. The Alternatives to Cream Chargers
Luckily, there are many alternatives to cream chargers that you can use to whip cream. For example, you can use a hand whisk or an electric mixer to produce the whipped cream. You can also purchase whipped cream dispensers that use CO2 instead of nitrous oxide. Although using CO2 to whip cream may result in a slightly different texture, it is a safer and more eco-friendly alternative.
7. The Future of Whipped Cream Chargers
Despite the ban, whipped cream chargers are still legal in Australia. They are only restricted due to their potential for illicit use. This means that the future of whipped cream chargers in Australia depends on the government, the public’s perception of nitrous oxide, and the actions of the cream charger distributors.
FAQs
Q: Are cream chargers illegal in Australia?
A: No, cream chargers are not illegal in Australia, but they are restricted. They are considered a potential substance for illicit use and are included in the list of restricted substances under the Poisons Standard.
Q: Can you still buy whipped cream chargers in Australia?
A: Yes, you can still buy whipped cream chargers in Australia. However, they are only sold in specialty stores, and the availability and affordability of whipped cream have been affected by the ban.
Q: What are the alternatives to whipped cream chargers?
A: The alternatives to whipped cream chargers include hand-whisking, using electric mixers, or using whipped cream dispensers that use CO2 instead of nitrous oxide.
In conclusion, the ban on cream chargers is a response to the growing recreational use of nitrous oxide. Although the ban has been a setback for whipped cream lovers, it has prompted the development of safer and more eco-friendly alternatives. As such, the future of whipped cream chargers in Australia depends on the balance between their potential for illicit use and the innovation of their distributors.