UK government agrees three-month carbon dioxide deal

Product needed for food, hospitals and nuclear plants was under threat as main supplier faced supply crisis

Production of carbon dioxide for use in producing meat, beer and fizzy drinks has been secured for at least three months under a new industry deal.

Meat processors, brewers, bakers and soft drink producers all use CO₂ in making and packaging their goods. It is also required for the humane slaughter of animals including pigs and chickens, and is used by hospitals and nuclear power plants.