What should never replace a CO2/Nitrogen pressure system when serving beer?

Using oxygen as a replacement for a CO2/Nitrogen pressure system when serving beer is detrimental because oxygen can lead to oxidation, which deteriorates the quality of the beer. Oxidation can spoil the flavor, aroma, and overall freshness of the beer, causing it to taste stale or off. CO2 and nitrogen are inert gases that do not react with beer, allowing for proper dispensing while maintaining the beer’s integrity and carbonation levels.

In contrast, helium, air, and hydrogen all present their own challenges. Helium can alter the beer’s flavor profile, air contains both nitrogen and oxygen which can introduce oxidation issues, and hydrogen is reactive and can create unsafe conditions in pressurized environments. This is why oxygen is specifically highlighted as the one gas that should never substitute the proper gases used for beer dispensing.