Let’s face it, who hasn’t been tempted to snag a bite of fresh snow, especially during those carefree childhood snowball fights?
Winter brings many joys but an often-overlooked hazard is the the dangers of eating fresh snow. This cautionary insight is particularly relevant for winter sports enthusiasts and families enjoying the snowy season. As snow fell earlier today in parts of the UK, including in Glasgow, a ski tour company, Ski Vertigo, has highlighted the numerous reasons you should never give into the temptation of eating snow, even if it’s fresh.
Rocks and Debris: Seemingly innocent fresh snow can hide small rocks and debris, creating a risk of choking or causing dental damage. These hazards are often invisible to the naked eye, making snow consumption risky.
Questionable Cleanliness: Contrary to popular belief, snow is not always clean and pure. As it falls, it can absorb pollutants from the air, including car exhaust and industrial emissions, posing health risks if ingested.
Microbial Contamination: Snow can host a variety of microbes, including bacteria and viruses. While many are harmless, there’s a risk of encountering pathogens, particularly in areas with animal activity or human presence.
Chemical Contamination: Snow in urban or industrial areas may contain traces of harmful chemicals, such as road salts and industrial byproducts. These substances can be detrimental to health, especially when ingested.
A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo:
“Who among us hasn’t felt the urge to taste fresh snow, particularly in our younger days? It’s a classic winter temptation. While getting a face full of snow during a ski trip might be less risky thanks to the cleaner environment of the mountains, it’s still wise to resist the urge to eat it. We recommend enjoying the snow visually and engaging in safe winter activities, rather than consuming it. And for the young ones (or the young at heart) who just can’t resist the allure of snow eating, why not offer them some crushed ice as a safer alternative? It’s a fun and safe way to satisfy that snowy curiosity.”
And as Frank Zappa warned, if it’s yellow it is definitely a no-no…
