Denmark bans nitrous oxide sales to under-18s amid rising misuse

Denmark is tightening its grip on nitrous oxide sales, introducing new restrictions aimed at curbing recreational use, particularly among young people. Since 2020, several legislative changes have been enacted to reduce consumption for intoxication purposes, as inhaling the gas can lead to severe health issues.

The updated regulations now explicitly forbid the sale and marketing of nitrous oxide cartridges to anyone under the age of 18. Furthermore, consumers are limited to purchasing a maximum of two small cartridges per day, equivalent to 17 grams. Any purchase exceeding this amount requires sellers to verify if the buyer is a business.

Stores that already sell alcohol, tobacco, or e-cigarettes are now prohibited from stocking nitrous oxide. A significant change, effective July 1, 2023, bans the sale of nitrous oxide for recreational purposes regardless of the quantity. Citizens caught possessing the gas in public spaces, including nightlife areas, festivals, and educational institutions, face potential fines. Illicit sales carry a hefty penalty of 50,000 Danish kroner, plus confiscation of the nitrous oxide stock, even for private sellers. The Danish Safety Agency is empowered to shut down social media profiles used for illegal sales and can pose as consumers to monitor compliance.