n20 chargers

N2O Chargers vs. N2 Chargers: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Culinary Creations

In the kitchen, getting the texture and flavor just right in whipped creams, foams and infusions is all about the tools and ingredients. Two gases we use for this are nitrous oxide (N2O) and nitrogen (N2) and each is used with a specific charger. If you’re a chef or mixologist looking to take your creations to the next level you need to understand the difference between N2O chargers and N2 chargers.

Understanding N2O Chargers

Nitrous oxide chargers are small, pressurized canisters of nitrous oxide gas. These have been applied so far mainly in whipped cream dispensers to make light and airy whipped cream. Its great solubility of N2O in fat allows it to dissolve into the cream, and upon dispensing, it expands to make a fluffy texture.


Applications of N2O Chargers:

  • Whipped Cream: Ideal for creating smooth, airy whipped cream with a consistent texture.
  • Culinary Foams and Espumas: Used to produce savory and sweet foams for various dishes.
  • Infusions: Suitable for rapid infusions of flavors into liquids.

Benefits of N₂O Chargers:

  • Fat Solubility: N2O dissolves in fats, perfect for dairy based applications.
  • Neutral Taste: Doesn’t impart any off flavours to the preparation.
  • Stabilization: Helps keep whipped cream longer than traditional methods.

Science Behind Whipped Cream Chargers & Nitrous Oxide


Understanding N2 Chargers

Nitrogen (N2) chargers are filled with pure nitrogen gas and are used in the beverage industry for nitro infused drinks. Unlike N2O, nitrogen is not soluble in fats but is soluble in water based liquids so is suitable for different applications.


Applications of N2 Chargers:

  • Nitro Cold Brew Coffee: Infuses coffee with nitrogen to create a creamy, stout like effect.
  • Nitro Beers: Adds a smooth, velvety texture to certain styles of beer.
  • Cocktails: For unique textures and mouthfeel in various mixed drinks.

Benefits of N2 Chargers:

  • Creamy Texture: Gives a smooth, cascading effect in drinks.
  • Enhanced Mouthfeel: Improves the sensory experience of drinks without adding sweetness.
  • Stable Bubbles: Smaller, more stable bubbles than carbon dioxide so a denser head in drinks.

N2O vs N2 Chargers

  • Solubility: N2O is fat soluble so perfect for dairy applications like whipped cream, N2 is water soluble so suitable for beverages.
  • Flavor Impact: N2O doesn’t change the taste of the cream, N2 enhances the mouthfeel of drinks without adding flavour.
  • Applications: N2O chargers for whipped creams and foams, N2 chargers for nitro infused beverages.

Which Charger is Right for You

When choosing between N2O and N2 chargers consider:
  • For Whipped Cream and Culinary Foams: Use N2O chargers for the desired texture and stability.
  • For Nitro Beverages: Use N2 chargers for smooth, creamy drinks with mouthfeel.
    • Examples of Beverages: Cold Brew Coffee, Beers, Cocktails

Safety Considerations

Use chargers as intended and follow manufacturer guidelines. Misuse of gas chargers can be harmful to your health. Use food grade gases and the right equipment for culinary use.


In Summary:

Both N2O and N2 chargers are used in modern gastronomy, each with their own properties for different applications. Knowing the difference allows chefs and beverage artisans to choose the right tool for their creations.
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