BPOM chief Taruna Ikrar said Thursday that the measure aims to protect young people, as the product is being targeted at teenagers and young adults.
He warned that misuse of nitrous oxide—commonly known as “laughing gas”—poses serious risks to both physical and mental health, and has been linked to fatalities.
A circular issued in February clarified that nitrous oxide packaged as “Baby Whip” or similar products is not classified as a food additive.
Under Indonesian law, medical gases are not permitted for public distribution and may only be used in healthcare facilities.
Nitrous oxide is typically used as an anesthetic to reduce anxiety before surgery. However, it is increasingly being misused recreationally for its euphoric and sedative effects.
Long-term abuse can lead to dependency, respiratory distress, hypoxia, and even death.
Authorities report that the product has spread to major cities including Jakarta and Bali.
In a recent raid in West Jakarta, police seized 51 bottles of Baby Whip gas, empty cylinders, and packaging equipment from a suspected distribution warehouse operating via online sales.
The case is being prosecuted under Indonesia’s health law, with offenders facing up to 12 years in prison and fines of Rp5 billion (US$285,000) for unauthorized production and distribution of medical substances.
Translator: Mecca Yumna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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