R&B sensation SZA has raised serious concerns about the latest trend in recreational substances—specifically, the marketing of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” to Black children.
In a heated post on X (formerly Twitter), the “Kill Bill” singer expressed her dismay over what she sees as a dangerous and targeted campaign aimed at vulnerable youth.
“Sorry to be old and annoying, but… Is no one gonna talk about how Galaxy Gas came out of nowhere and is being MASS marketed to Black children?” SZA asked, sounding the alarm on the issue.
The 33-year-old artist’s post, which has since gone viral, emphasized the rapid rise of “Galaxy Gas,” a nitrous oxide brand founded in 2021 that has allegedly been marketed to appeal to younger audiences. She expressed concern about the product’s childlike branding and marketing, which is being sold at major retailers like Walmart and gas stations.
Nitrous oxide is not a new substance; it is commonly used by dentists and in various other medical procedures, but only under medical supervision and with a concentration of 30% nitrous oxide and 70% oxygen.
But now, kids are purchasing it online or in vape shops to use as an inhalant.
Despite acknowledging that nitrous oxide has existed for years, SZA stressed the peculiar nature of “Galaxy Gas.” She noted that the brand’s emergence and rapid growth in popularity, especially among Black youth, are troubling.
“Since when are we selling whippits at the store? Somebody protect the children!” she exclaimed, referring to the common street name for nitrous oxide canisters used recreationally to achieve short-lived euphoria.
“GALAXY GAS, however, was founded in 2021 in metro Atlanta and is currently being marketed to CHILDREN,” SZA continued. “It has childlike branding and marketing and is being sold at Walmart and gas stations like cigarettes… that’s not normal. Stop being dense and HELP THESE KIDS!”
Getting high by “whiffing” nitrous oxide is a risky new trend on TikTok and social media. It is legal to purchase but not legal to use as a high.
