Magistrates have granted permission for custom officers to seize nearly 3,000 boxes full nitrous oxide, known as 'hippy crack' or 'laughing gas' found at the Port of Felixstowe.

The shipment was discovered at Felixstowe on Monday inside seven containers and Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) applied to Suffolk Magistrates' Court to condemn the 81 pallets and 2,988 boxes of Taiwan-produced Mosa brand nitrous oxide cartridges.

Nitrous oxide is used as pain relief and cartridges are commonly sold as a propellant for whipped cream dispensers and to blow up balloons.

The Psychoactive Substance Act 2016 made it illegal to import or supply nitrous oxide cartridges – unless proof of their intended use as cream chargers in the catering industry is produced.

Monday's seized cargo had been headed for a wholesale company based in Rutland, which was given notice of the hearing and chose not to contest the application.

HMRC made an application for the condemnation of items liable to forfeiture in accordance with paragraph six of schedule three to the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 and it was grated without challenge.

The silver cartridges were also used as a legal high until the law changed four years ago banning it as a recreational drug known as 'hippy crack'. Cartridges have been found in some Felixstowe play areas promoting concerns for youngsters looking for a euphoric high.

Nitrous oxide is a colourless gas which can have serious health risks including heart attacks and brain damage, while prolonged use can lead to memory loss and vitamin deficiency.

Manchester United and England midfielder Mason Greenwood sparked controversy earlier this week when he was seen inhaling the so called hippy crack.