SZA recently shared that she used her influence to stop a child from indulging in “whippets” — a slang term for nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) which is inhaled for a quick high.
The Grammy-winner shared the moment on Tuesday (May 20) via Instagram, revealing she convinced the kid to toss out the canister in exchange for a photo and video with her.
“I literally convinced a kid to throw away his whippet canisters in exchange for a photo/video at the In-N-Out drive-thru,” she wrote, sharing a photo of the brightly colored tin can. “Sad but if I can stop this sh*t for even a second imma try. Once again these drugs are clearly marketed to CHILDREN. Really need America to do better man.”
Instagram/SZA
“Whippets” are small metal canisters filled with gas inside of whipped cream dispensers. One brand in particular, Galaxy Gas, has stirred concern for its bright, candy-colored packaging. The party-drug has suspiciously rose in popularity, especially on social media.
Last September, SZA questioned the origins and marketing tactics of Galaxy Gas, as she pointed out how its design seems disturbingly childlike — stars, bright colors, and whimsical branding that feels intentionally crafted to attract younger users.
“Sorry to be old n annoying but.. Is no one gonna talk about how galaxy gas came out of no where and is being MASS marketed to black children?” she asked on X. “The government is doing NOTHING ? .. since when are we selling whip its at the store ???? Somebody protect the children.”
She added, “Something about the childlike designs and marketing is so spooky like .. stars and bright colors? you tryna entice the kids on purpose ? Why when u google does it say it was founded in metro Atlanta in 2021 but no further info …sumn tells me the owner looks like colonel.”
According to a few health facts shared by the “Snooze” singer, frequent nitrous oxide abuse can lead to serious consequences like nerve damage, death of brain cells, B12 deficiency, and even partial paralysis.
Take a look at SZA’s heroic moment above.
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