Bad news amateur cake makers: New regulations for the sale of nangs come into effect today

Tough new regulation “to protect people from the harmful effects of nitrous oxide (NO2)” comes into effect as of today, the WA Health Department has announced.

The new regulations mean individual members of the public won’t be able to buy nitrous oxide for “non-legitimate purposes”.

This means the purchase of those tiny silver bullets AKA 10-gram nitrous oxide canisters AKA ‘nangs’ you often find in piles around carparks on Sunday mornings will only be accessible to:

• registered food businesses
• businesses with a liquor licence that prepare alcoholic drinks on-site
• educational and training institutions
• cooking school businesses

If purchasing nangs, you’ll need to show you’re an approved recipient, while suppliers will need to collect evidence. The new regulations won’t impact medical the already heavily-regulated use of nitrous oxide, and anyone caught selling it can get an on-the-spot penalty of $6,000 or up to $30,000 if convicted in court.

A public health campaign will be launched in conjunction with the new regulations, highlighting the harms of nang abuse which can lead to permanent brain and spinal cord damage. The campaign will also aim to educate suppliers and legitimate purchasers on how to comply.

For more information regarding changes to the Medicines and Poisons Regulations 2016 head to the health.wa.gov.au.

And in all seriousness, if you’re seeking help to address nitrous oxide use contact the Alcohol and Drug Support Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via 9442 5000 or 1800 198 024, or head to the Drug Aware website. can also be found on the Drug Aware website.