Ministers are reportedly planning to ban the sale and possession of what is known as laughing gas as part of a bid to tackle antisocial behaviour.
The Times newspaper reports that under the proposals, drug misuse laws would be updated to allow people found with nitrous oxide gas in public to be prosecuted. The paper said that under the changes, only those with a "legitimate reason" would be exempt.
Examples given include chefs, who use it for whipped cream or freezing and chilling food. The substance can also be used as pain relief during dental treatment or childbirth.
