What Are Nangs? History of Nangs in Australia and the World

Have you ever wondered about those little metal canisters often used to make whipped cream? While these nifty devices, known as nangs or whippets, are a staple in the culinary world for creating perfect whipped cream, many people still wonder: What are nangs? Where did these devices come from? What’s the history of Nangs?

Key Takeaways

• Nangs are small metal canisters filled with nitrous oxide (N₂O), primarily used in the culinary industry to create whipped cream.
• When released from nang into a cream whipper, nitrous oxide aerates the cream, creating a light, fluffy texture perfect for desserts.
• Inhaling nitrous oxide for recreational purposes is illegal and poses significant health risks.
• The history of Nangs started with the English chemist Joseph Priestley in 1772.
• Horace Wells pioneered its use as an anesthetic in 1844, revolutionizing surgical and dental practices.
• Over the past few decades, nangs have become popular in Australia for culinary purposes, particularly in making whipped cream.
• King Whip promotes the safe and responsible use of nangs for culinary purposes only.

Nangs might seem like simple kitchen tools, but there’s much more to a nitrous bulb than meets the eye.

Nangs Meaning

Nangs, commonly referred to as whipped cream chargers, are small metal nitrous gas cartridges filled with nitrous oxide (N₂O). Primarily designed for use in the culinary industry, they are essential tools for whipping cream.

When the colourless and tasteless gas is released from the nang canister into a cream dispenser, it aerates the cream, creating a light, fluffy texture perfect for topping desserts. These small canisters are a staple in professional kitchens and home cooking, ensuring consistent quality in whip cream and other aerated culinary creations.

Their practical application in the kitchen makes them indispensable for chefs and cooking enthusiasts.

What is a Nang in Australia?

In Australia, “nangs” is the colloquial term for nitrous oxide bulbs used primarily in the culinary industry. These nangs/cream chargers are essential tools for creating whip cream, offering a convenient and efficient way to achieve a light, fluffy texture that is perfect for topping desserts.

What is the Science Behind Nangs?

In culinary applications, N₂O primarily aerates cream. Released from nang into a cream whipper, the pure gas dissolves under pressure. Upon dispensing, it creates tiny bubbles, producing a light, fluffy texture perfect for topping desserts.

This ensures consistent, high-quality whipped cream, making nangs or cream chargers indispensable in professional kitchens and home baking.

Scientific Insights into Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is also widely used in medical settings, though it is not referred to as “nangs” in this context. Known commonly as “laughing gas,” it is administered by medical professionals for its anesthetic and analgesic properties during dental procedures and minor surgeries. The controlled use in medical settings ensures patient safety and minimizes risks.

A study published by the National Library of Medicine, “Analysis of brain connectivity during nitrous oxide sedation using graph theory,” reveals significant effects of nitrous oxide on brain network connectivity.

The study found that nitrous oxide affects the interconnection between brain regions during sedation, particularly in the alpha1 and alpha2 frequency bands. These changes suggest that nitrous oxide interferes with the efficiency of information integration in the brain, possibly contributing to its sedative effects.

This interference highlights the importance of using nitrous oxide responsibly and solely for its intended purposes to avoid potential health risks. By focusing on the culinary applications of cream chargers, we can ensure their safe and effective use in creating high-quality whipped cream and other aerated culinary delights.

Are Nangs Dangerous?

Understanding the various uses of nangs and the associated safety considerations is crucial. Let’s explore their safety in culinary, medical, and recreational contexts.

• Culinary Use: Nangs are entirely safe and effective for their intended culinary purposes. In professional kitchens and home cooking, following the proper procedures for using cream chargers ensures that they provide a convenient and reliable way to create high-quality whipped cream without any health risks.

• Medical Use: N₂O has a long history of use as a general anaesthetic for pain relief during minor dental surgery procedures. Medical professionals are trained to administer nitrous oxide in controlled doses to sedate patients, ensuring safety and minimizing risks. N₂O in medicine is highly regulated, and its benefits are well-documented, making it a valuable tool in healthcare.

• Recreational Use: N₂O inhalation as a recreational drug is both illegal and dangerous. Misusing cream chargers can cause harm to the brain and body both temporarily and permanently. This act is strictly prohibited under the Drugs, Poisons, and Controlled Substances Act 1981 in Victoria, Australia, with strict laws to prevent misuse and ensure public safety.

What is the History of Nangs Globally?

The history of nangs, or N₂O, dates back to the 18th century in a laboratory. It has evolved from a scientific curiosity to an essential medical tool and is now widely used in culinary applications, particularly in creating whipped cream.

Joseph Priestly

Joseph Priestly‘s discovery of nitrous oxide is a fascinating story highlighting his significant contributions to chemistry. Born in 1733, Priestley was an English chemist and philosopher whose experiments with gases laid the foundation for modern chemistry. His work identified several gases, including oxygen, which he discovered in 1774.

In 1772, Priestley first identified N₂O during his experiments. He was experimenting with other types of pure gas to understand their properties and potential uses.

By heating ammonium nitrate, he produced a colourless and tasteless gas, which he collected and studied. Although Priestley documented the properties of N₂O, it was not until later that its full range of applications and effects became apparent.

Humphry Davy

Humphry Davy was an English chemist and inventor born in 1778 in Penzance, Cornwall. He significantly expanded on Joseph Priestley’s discovery of nitrous oxide in the late 18th century.

At the Pneumatic Institution, Davy was tasked with investigating the medicinal properties of various gases. In 1799, he focused on nitrous oxide, a gas Priestley had identified but not extensively studied for its physiological effects. Davy was intrigued by the potential therapeutic uses of gases and embarked on a series of experiments.

He began by inhaling small amounts of N₂O and meticulously recorded his observations. He noted the gas’s euphoric effects when inhaled directly, describing feelings of giddiness, intense pleasure, and a sense of well-being.

Davy observed that inhaling N₂O induces exhilaration and laughter. Hence, N2O became known as laughing gas worldwide.

Serious about his experiments, Davy held “laughing gas parties” where he made his guests inhale N₂O from plastic bags to solidify his theories. These laughing gas parties led to the most significant breakthrough in anesthetics.

In 1800, he published his findings in a seminal book titled “Researches, Chemical and Philosophical: Chiefly Concerning Nitrous Oxide or Dephlogisticated Nitrous Air, and its Respiration.” This work detailed the physical and psychological effects of nitrous oxide and proposed its use as an anesthetic.

Davy’s findings inspired subsequent scientists and physicians to explore the medical uses of nitrous oxide, eventually leading to its adoption in dental and surgical procedures in the mid-19th century.

Horace Wells

Horace Wells was a pioneering dentist born on January 21, 1815, in Hartford, Vermont. In 1836, Wells set up his dental practice in Hartford, Connecticut, where he quickly became known for his innovative techniques and commitment to patient comfort.

In December 1844, Wells attended a public demonstration by Gardner Quincy Colton, who was showing the effects of nitrous oxide on volunteers at a Hartford exhibition. During the demonstration, a participant under the influence of nitrous oxide injured his leg but seemed to feel no pain. This observation sparked Wells’ interest.

He soon arranged for a fellow dentist, John M. Riggs, to extract one of Wells’ teeth while under the influence of nitrous oxide administered by Colton. Remarkably, Wells experienced no pain during the extraction. This successful experiment convinced Wells of the potential of nitrous oxide as an anesthetic.

Eager to share his discovery with the medical community, Wells demonstrated the use of nitrous oxide in several dental procedures. He then traveled to Boston in 1845 to present his findings at Massachusetts General Hospital. Unfortunately, the demonstration did not go as planned. The patient experienced pain during the procedure, leading to skepticism and ridicule from the medical professionals in attendance.

Despite this setback, Wells continued to use N₂O in his dental practice and remained convinced of its efficacy. However, the lack of immediate acceptance from the broader medical community was disheartening.

After his initial failure to gain acceptance, Wells’ professional and personal life suffered. He continued to advocate for the use of nitrous oxide but struggled to achieve recognition during his lifetime. In 1847, Wells moved to New York City to promote his discovery further but faced ongoing challenges.

Tragically, Wells’ life ended prematurely. On January 24, 1848, suffering from depression and the effects of self-experimentation with chloroform, Wells took his own life. Despite his untimely death, his contributions to anesthesia were eventually recognized.

The Past and The Present Medical Use of Nangs

In the years following Horace Wells’ death, the medical community gradually came to acknowledge the significance of his work. Colleagues such as William T. G. Morton and Charles Thomas Jackson, who had also explored using ether as an anesthetic, contributed to the broader acceptance of inhalation anesthesia.

As the 19th century progressed, N₂O became increasingly popular in medical settings. It was used as a general anaesthetic for minor surgical procedures and dental practices.

N₂O’s ability to relieve pain while keeping patients conscious made it a valuable tool for doctors and dentists. By the late 1800s, it had cemented its place as a critical component of anaesthetic practices, often combined with other substances to enhance its effectiveness.

Where did Nangs Come From?

The integration of N₂O into the culinary world, particularly for making whipped cream, started around the mid-20th century. This was driven by the need for a consistent and efficient method to aerate cream.

Nitrous oxide in whipped cream dispensers or cream whippers became popular due to its ability to dissolve under pressure and release gas into the cream, creating a light, fluffy texture.

By the 1950s, nitrous oxide whipped cream dispensers became widely available and were adopted by professional chefs and home cooks. Their convenience and reliability made them a staple in the culinary world.

What is the History of Nangs in Australia?

Nitrous oxide, or nangs, has a unique place in Australian culture. It is primarily used as a culinary tool for creating whipped cream. Its popularity reflects broader social and regulatory trends in the country.

When Did Nangs Become Popular in Australia?

While there is no significant record of the history of Nangs in Australia anywhere, these nitrous oxide bulbs or cream chargers have significantly increased in popularity across the country over the decades. Initially confined to the culinary arts, where they were essential for creating whipped cream, their use has grown due to their convenience and effectiveness in professional and home kitchens.

Nangs are readily available in convenience stores, supermarkets, and online platforms. It’s common to find them sold alongside kitchen supplies in major retail chains.

The rise of nang delivery Melbourne services has further boosted their accessibility, with some companies offering late-night or 24/7 delivery options. This convenience has significantly contributed to widespread use in urban and rural Australia.

The increasing number of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries in Australia has also driven the demand for nangs. According to Statista, the number of cafes and restaurants in Australia has risen steadily, with over 44,000 establishments in operation in 2021.

Additionally, the Bakery Product Manufacturing industry is expected to grow to $5.1 billion by 2028, highlighting the expanding culinary scene and the importance of high-quality kitchen tools like nangs.

Nitrous Gas Cartridges Regulations in Australia

While nitrous oxide is legal in Australia, its sale and possession are subject to specific laws aimed at mitigating potential misuse. The current legal status allows for selling nitrous oxide canisters marketed and used for legitimate culinary purposes, such as whipping cream.

However, the recreation side of nangs falls into a grey area that has prompted increasing regulatory scrutiny.

Here’s a detailed overview of the laws and penalties regarding N2O or nangs in various Australian states and territories, focusing on both culinary and recreational purposes:

New South Wales (NSW)

• Culinary: Nangs, such as whipped cream chargers, can be sold in New South Wales for culinary purposes.

• Recreational: As of May 12, 2024, the NSW government is set to introduce stricter laws on the sale of nangs following incidents where children as young as 13 were hospitalized after misusing these canisters to achieve a euphoric high. In these new conditions, retailers must keep nang canisters out of public view, limit the quantity and size of bulbs sold, and prohibit nighttime and same-day deliveries to curb easy access and misuse.

Northern Territory (NT)

• Culinary: Selling nang chargers in the Northern Territory is permitted under specific guidelines for food preparation.

• Recreational: The sale of nitrous oxide for recreational purposes is strictly regulated, and violations can result in penalties. Specifically, possessing, using, producing, manufacturing, or importing nitrous oxide in contravention of the Poisons and Dangerous Drugs Act is considered an offense, carrying a penalty of $10,000 or up to 5 years imprisonment.

Queensland (QLD)

• Culinary: Selling nang cartridges in Queensland is allowed for legitimate culinary purposes.

• Recreational: While purchasing N2O in small canisters is legal in Queensland due to its legitimate culinary uses, authorities can investigate whether retailers are suspected of selling it in bulk for illegal use. Under the Summary Offences Act 2005, it is an offense to sell potentially harmful substances, such as nitrous oxide, to minors or to individuals who are likely to misuse them. The penalties for a first offense can reach up to 25 penalty units or three months of imprisonment. For subsequent offenses, up to 50 penalty units or one year in prison.

South Australia (SA)

• Culinary: Selling nang cartridges or cylinders in South Australia is allowed under the Controlled Substances Act 1984.

• Recreational: The Controlled Substances Variation Regulations 2019 make selling N2O in South Australia illegal for illegal purposes. It is an offense to sell or supply nangs to individuals under the age of 18, and between the hours of 10 pm and 5 am is prohibited. Retailers must also ensure that nitrous oxide is not visible or accessible to the public in stores and must display a notice informing customers about the offense of selling nitrous oxide to minors. Vendors can be fined up to $5,000 for selling N2O chargers during restricted hours and fines of up to $5,000 if the product is not stored out of sight and inaccessible to the public. Additionally, failing to display the required notice about the offense of selling to young people can result in an on-the-spot expiation of $315 or a fine up to $2,500.

Tasmania (TAS)

• Culinary: The sale of nang products in Tasmania is permitted when used appropriately in food preparation.

• Recreational Use: The Poisons Regulations 2018 classify N2O as a Schedule 4 substance, meaning it is a prescription-only medicine. Retailers must adhere to stringent rules for its sale and storage. Selling N2O to minors is prohibited, and it must be stored securely, out of sight, and inaccessible to the public. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to 10 penalty units.

Victoria (VIC)

• Culinary: Selling nangs cream chargers in Victoria is permissible for culinary purposes.

• Recreational Use: In Victoria, N2O sales for non-therapeutic use are regulated under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981. Retailers must comply with the labeling, container, and storage requirements of the Poisons Standard. Selling N2O to anyone who intends to misuse it or to young adults is prohibited. The penalties for non-compliance include fines and possible imprisonment. Retailers must ensure that N2O is stored securely, out of public view, and display signs about the responsible sale of solvents and their right to refuse sales.

Western Australia (WA)

• Culinary: Nangs are allowed in culinary settings only.

• Recreational Use: In Western Australia, the sale of nitrous oxide canisters for recreational use is strictly regulated, with new laws taking effect in the second half of 2024. Only registered food businesses and select licensed businesses can purchase small 10-gram nitrous oxide canisters. The sale of large nang tanks is prohibited due to their lack of legitimate food use. People must provide evidence of their registered business to buy nangs, and suppliers must retain this evidence for regulatory checks. Non-compliance can result in substantial fines and imprisonment.

• Slang Terms: Laughing Gas, Whippets

• Culinary Use: In the US, nitrous oxide is commonly used in the culinary industry to produce whipped cream for various desserts, including pumpkin pie, sundaes, and artisanal coffee drinks. It’s also used in molecular gastronomy to create innovative dishes.

Effects of Using Misusing Nang Canisters

If used for recreational purposes, N2O offers a brief, euphoric high that has made it popular in medical and recreational contexts. However, it’s essential to understand the potential short—and long-term effects associated with its use.

Short-Term Effects of Nitrous Oxide

When inhaled directly, nitrous oxide induces a range of immediate effects that can be both pleasurable and disorienting.

• Euphoria, Lightheadedness, and Dissociation: The most commonly sought-after effect of nangs is euphoria. Most users often report feelings of intense happiness and relaxation, while others complain about hearing distorted and repetitive sound. This euphoric state is accompanied by lightheadedness and a sense of dissociation from one’s surroundings, providing a temporary escape from reality.

• Potential for Dizziness, Impaired Motor Function, and Brief Hallucinations: Alongside euphoria, most users may experience dizziness and impaired motor function. These effects can make it challenging to maintain balance and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents and falls. Brief hallucinations and altered perceptions of time and space are also possible, adding to the disorienting experience​.

Long-Term Health Risks of Nitrous Oxide

While the immediate effects of nangs are short-lived, excessive use can lead to severe long-term health issues.

• Vitamin B12 Depletion and Associated Neurological Damage: One of the most significant adverse effects of long-term nitrous oxide use as a party drug, for example, is vitamin B12 depletion. Nitrous oxide inactivates vitamin B12, a vital nutrient for nerve health. Prolonged depletion can lead to nerve damage, manifesting as temporary loss of feeling in some parts of the body, tingling in the hands and feet, and even difficulty walking. Severe cases may result in permanent nerve damage, cognitive impairments, and permanent issues to the nervous system.

• Risks of Hypoxia, Frostbite, and Addiction: Inhaling a large amount of nitrous oxide directly from the canister can cause hypoxia or oxygen deprivation, leading to potential brain damage or death. The gas is stored under high pressure, making it extremely cold when released. Direct contact with the skin or lips can cause frostbite. Additionally, the brief but intense high from nitrous oxide can be addictive, leading users to seek repeated doses and potentially develop a dependency​.

• Case Studies and Medical Research Findings: Numerous case studies highlight the dangers of long-term nitrous oxide use. For example, research has documented cases of severe neurological damage in users with prolonged exposure, underscoring the risks of vitamin B12 depletion. Studies also show a correlation between nitrous oxide abuse and an increased risk of accidents due to impaired motor function and judgment.

Harm Reduction Strategies When Using Nangs/Cream Chargers

Understanding and implementing harm reduction strategies can significantly minimize the chances of misusing nangs.

Safe Use Practices

• Proper Handling: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using nang cartridges in culinary applications. Ensure the cream dispenser is securely sealed and operated according to guidelines to prevent accidents.

• Controlled Environments: To prevent potential hazards, use nitrous oxide cream chargers safely in well-ventilated areas away from open flames or high places.

Importance of Not Using Nangs Recreationally

• Legal and Health Aspects: Misusing nitrous oxide bulbs is illegal and can have significant long-term health effects, including dizziness, impaired motor function, and long-term effects on the nervous system, such as memory loss. Always use nangs strictly for their intended culinary purposes.

• Avoiding Misuse: Never inhale nitrous oxide directly from the bulb. This practice is dangerous and can lead to severe injuries, including frostbite and asphyxiation.

Supplementing with Vitamin B12

• Health Considerations: For individuals exposed to nitrous oxide frequently in a professional kitchen setting, monitoring vitamin B12 levels and consulting healthcare professionals about appropriate supplementation to prevent neurological damage is advisable.

The Legacy and Future of Nangs

So, what are nangs? Commonly referred to as whipped cream chargers, they have a rich history and vital role in culinary applications. These versatile tools have been essential in creating whipped cream and other aerated delights, offering consistency and quality in professional kitchens and home baking.

Understanding the background, effects, and importance of responsible use is crucial for ensuring safety. At King Whip, we are dedicated to providing high-quality nangs in Melbourne while promoting informed and safe practices. We focus on the safe and responsible culinary use of nitrous oxide, ensuring it enhances your culinary creations without compromising safety or legality.

Embrace the unique benefits of nangs with confidence, care, and respect for their intended purpose. Prioritize safety and environmental responsibility to enjoy the best these nitrous bulbs offer in your culinary endeavors.