Compliance

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As of 8 November 2023, nitrous oxide is classified as a Class C controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This means that while N2O remains available for legitimate commercial and catering use, both suppliers and purchasers are responsible for ensuring it's used lawfully and not for recreational inhalation. 

Suppliers and purchasers must act responsibly. Elcox Trading and our customers are both expected to exercise proper diligence in the supply and use of nitrous oxide, not treat it as an unrestricted commodity.

Risks and penalties for misuse. Possession with intent for recreational use can carry up to 2 years in prison or an unlimited fine. Producing or supplying N2O for known or suspected recreational inhalation can carry up to 14 years in prison.

No special licence required for legitimate use (current framework). At present, no additional licence is needed for food and catering use of nitrous oxide, provided the purpose is clear and verifiable.

We avoid high-risk transactions. We're cautious about supplying quantities of N2O to addresses or accounts that raise suspicion, including private residential addresses, student accommodation, event or festival sites, or any account without a clear, verifiable business context.

We supply N2O only for legitimate culinary and food production use, to verified trade accounts. Our account verification, packaging, and labelling practices are aligned with UK law and current guidance. We monitor changes to UK legislation and industry best practice on an ongoing basis, and update our account verification process accordingly. 

Use N2O supplied by Elcox Trading only for its approved food and catering purpose. Keep records that confirm your legitimate business use, in case they're needed. Contact us if you have any doubts about compliance, or need help understanding what's required of your account.

Questions about this page: 

Email : sales@elcoxtrading.co.uk 

Tel : 01204 974006.