The Superintendence of Public Health is being very vigilant on the use of liquid nitrogen in drinks, but the only information it has had on the issue is from the media because neither the UK nor the EU authorities have issued any official directives.

Answering a parliamentary question by Labour MP Leo Brincat, Health Minister Joseph Cassar said the Public Health Directorate is “very conscious” of what is happening overseas and immediately reporting any such instances encountered.

He pointed out that it must be appreciated that the inspectorate cannot monitor “everything, everywhere and at any time”, and operators are not bound at law to inform the authorities on food and drink served in their establishments. This is why the law holds operators responsible.

The Environmental Health Directorate investigates every complaint or report received and takes all steps contemplated at law.

That said, current regulations in Malta are the same as in the rest of the EU. There is an ongoing system of inspections and auditing of food establishments, food sampling, surveillance of imports and administration of complaints reaching the directorate.

Dr Cassar said the alcohol served varies among operators. Drinks manufactured by lesser-known companies do not mean the product is damaging to health. The directorate can only investigate reports of deceitful mixing of ingredients.