Can you eat cigarette butts?
Quick Answer
No
Eating cigarette butts is not safe. They contain harmful chemicals and toxins that can lead to serious health problems.
What Is It?
Cigarette butts are the leftover part of a smoked cigarette. They contain the remaining tobacco and a filter, usually made from cellulose acetate, which is not biodegradable and can take many years to break down in the environment.
Why It Can Be Risky
There are numerous risks associated with eating cigarette butts:
- Ingesting the chemicals and toxins found in cigarette butts can lead to nicotine poisoning, which can cause vomiting, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, seizures or death.
- The cellulose acetate filter in cigarette butts is not digestible and can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed.
- Eating cigarette butts can also lead to long-term health problems such as cancer, heart disease, and lung disease due to the harmful substances they contain.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re trying to quit smoking, there are safer alternatives to eating cigarette butts. These include nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges), prescription medications, and behavioral therapy.