16g CO2 Chargers

What Is a 16g CO2 Charger?

A 16g CO2 charger is a single use steel cartridge holding about 16 grams of pure carbon dioxide under high pressure. You screw or clip it into a device, the gas releases, and it carbonates a drink or dispenses beer from a keg. Carbon dioxide is colourless, odourless and non flammable, so it adds fizz without changing the smell or taste of your drink.

These cartridges are bigger than 8g soda chargers or 12g cartridges, so one 16g charger holds more gas and does more work. That's why 16g is a popular size for beer kegs, beer taps, mini kegs and small batch carbonation.

Threaded or Non Threaded? Choose the Right Fit

A cartridge only works if it matches the neck your device is built for, so this is worth checking before anything else.

Threaded Cartridges

Threaded cartridges have a screw thread on the neck, usually 3/8 inch to 24 UNF, and screw firmly into the holder.

Non Threaded Cartridges

Non threaded cartridges have a plain neck with no thread, and are pierced by a pin inside the device.

The two aren't interchangeable in most cases. A few devices, such as some portable keg chargers, accept both, but always check your manufacturer's instructions before you buy. If you're not sure, message us and we'll help you match it.

Liss non threaded cartridges have a slimmer neck than Mosa, so they suit certain kegs and coolers that a wider neck won't fit.

Food Grade or Industrial Grade?

Both types are the same size, but certified for different uses.

Both types are the same size, but certified for different uses.

Food Grade CO2

Food grade CO2 is clean enough to go into drinks. Use it for beer, soda, sparkling water and any drink you'll serve or sell. It's the same additive used to carbonate soft drinks, listed as E290.

Industrial Grade CO2

Industrial grade CO2 isn't certified for food and drink contact, so it's used for general, non drink purposes.

If it's going in a glass, buy food grade. If you're ever unsure which pack is which, check the product title or ask us before you order.

What Can You Use 16g CO2 Chargers For?

• Beer kegs and mini kegs. A food grade 16g cartridge pushes beer out and keeps it carbonated. As a rough guide, one cartridge can dispense around a 128oz (about 3.8 litre) mini keg, though this varies by system.
• Beer taps and beverage dispensers. Suits home bars, small venues and events where a full gas bottle is overkill.
• Homebrewing. Carbonate your own beer and get the fizz level right for your batch.
• Soda and sparkling water. Add bubbles to water and mixers for a fresh, crisp finish.

Known compatible kegs and coolers include the Mini Keg Party Star Deluxe CO2 Tap, Beer King 2000, Party Master, and GrowlerWerks 128oz keg, among others. This list isn't complete, so match your device before ordering.

Key Features

• Pure food grade CO2. 100% pure carbon dioxide, so drinks taste clean with no off flavours.
• Trusted brands. Genuine Mosa and Liss cartridges, plus our Pro Beer range.
• Recyclable steel, not refillable. Recycle the empties with your tins.
• Threaded and non threaded options, so you can match the neck to your keg or tap.
• Pack sizes. A 10-pack for home use, or a box of 90 for busy cafes, bars and catering.

Typical Cartridge Specs

Specs vary slightly by brand, but a standard 16g cartridge looks like this:

Always follow the maker's instructions for your device, since the exact fit and gas needed can differ.

Safety and Storage

CO2 is safe when handled correctly, but the gas is under high pressure, so treat cartridges with care.

• For over 18s only.
• The cartridge gets very cold and can freeze during use. Don't touch the gas or the frozen tip, as escaping CO2 can cause a cold burn. Seek medical advice straight away if burned.
• Never remove a cartridge from your device until it's empty.
• Keep cartridges away from heat and out of direct sun. Don't store above 50°C, and never pierce or burn a cartridge.
• Store them upright in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.
• Only use a cartridge with a device approved for it.

Why Buy Your 16g CO2 Chargers From Rapid Cream?

We're a UK supplier trusted by home bakers, cafes and catering businesses, keeping genuine stock in the sizes and brands people actually use. If you're unsure about threaded versus non threaded, ask us before you order.

FAQs

What is a 16g CO2 charger used for?

Carbonating and dispensing drinks, most often beer from kegs, taps and mini kegs, plus soda and sparkling water.

Are 16g CO2 chargers threaded or non threaded?

Both exist. Threaded cartridges screw in with a 3/8 inch to 24 UNF thread. Non threaded cartridges have a plain neck and are pierced by a pin. Check which one your device needs before buying.

Is the CO2 food grade?

Our food grade cartridges are filled with 100% pure carbon dioxide (E290), safe for drinks. For any drink you'll serve or sell, choose food grade.

How much can one 16g cartridge dispense?

As a rough guide, one food grade cartridge dispenses around a 128oz (about 3.8 litre) mini keg. The exact amount depends on your keg, the pressure and the drink.

Will these fit my keg or tap?

16g cartridges fit many popular kegs and coolers, such as the Beer King 2000 and Party Star Deluxe, but not every device. Always check your manufacturer's instructions and match threaded or non threaded to your unit.

What is the difference between Mosa and Liss cartridges?

Both are quality food grade CO2. Liss non threaded cartridges have a slimmer neck, so they suit certain kegs that a wider Mosa neck won't fit.

Are the cartridges recyclable?

Yes, made from recyclable steel and not refillable. Once empty, recycle them with your tins. Never dispose of a full cartridge.

Can I use these for a soda maker?

16g is larger than a standard 8g soda charger. Only use a cartridge your soda maker is designed to take, checking the size and thread it needs first.