Response to 'Whip Pink' Case: BPOM Increases Oversight of N2O Gas Usage

The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) is increasing its oversight of nitrous oxide (N2O) usage in response to the circulation of ‘whip pink’ (laughing gas), which is being sold illegally and misused by several influencers.

“BPOM regrets that there are still influencers promoting or engaging in such practices. The public is requested to report any discovered cases to BPOM. Based on such reports, BPOM will deploy teams to the locations, as Indonesia’s territory is vast and handling these issues requires cross-sector cooperation,” said the Head of BPOM, Taruna Ikrar, when met in Jakarta on Tuesday.

According to Law Number 17 of 2023 concerning Health and Government Regulation (PP) Number 28 of 2024, Taruna continued, post-market surveillance will be handed over to BPOM starting from 1 July 2026.

“BPOM intends to carry out its duties to the maximum extent of its authority. Regarding addictive substances such as tobacco or cigarettes, BPOM’s authority includes ensuring the presence of health warning labels on products. These labels must include information stating that the product can be harmful to health, cause cancer, or even lead to death,” he explained.

If the content exceeds established standards and poses a health risk, BPOM will conduct monitoring and testing. “If violations are found, BPOM can take action, including withdrawing products from circulation. BPOM has also conducted enforcement in several locations. So far, we have been working with the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and the National Police. Although BPOM possesses Civil Servant Investigators (PPNS) and an enforcement directorate, cooperation with various stakeholders remains essential,” said Taruna Ikrar.

N2O gas is used in various sectors, and BPOM’s supervisory authority covers its use as a Food Additive (BTP) and as medical gas preparations that should only be used in healthcare facilities.

Under BPOM Regulation Number 11 of 2019 concerning Food Additives, N2O is classified as a type of food additive within the propellant group. Propellants are gases used to push food out of packaging; the most well-known example is its use in creating foam for whipped cream.

“BPOM has also issued Circular Letter (SE) Number 2 of 2026 regarding the Provisions for the Production, Importation, Registration, and Circulation of the Food Additive Dinitrogen Monoxide (N2O) on 27 February 2026,” concluded Taruna Ikrar.