Isobutane

International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 943b

Food additives Europe numbers: E943b 

Isobutane (E 943a) is indeed a food excipient, but with a specific use case:

• Function: It acts as a propellant in food aerosols.
• Properties: Isobutane is a liquefied gas at room temperature and pressure found in pressurized cans.
• Applications: It's used in whipped cream canisters, spray cheese, and some coffee creamers to create the desired fluffy texture by propelling the product out of the can.

Here's a breakdown of key points about isobutane as a food excipient:

• Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA in low concentrations used for food applications.
• Regulation: Its usage is strictly controlled with limitations on the amount allowed in food products.
• Alternatives: Other propellants like nitrogen or nitrous oxide are sometimes used, but isobutane offers specific advantages like better texture control and lower cost.

Important Considerations:

• Isobutane is flammable, so proper handling and storage of food products containing it are crucial.
• Inhalation of large amounts can cause intoxication or asphyxiation, so proper use of aerosol products is important.