Can you eat pearls?
Quick Answer
No
Pearls are not edible. They are made of calcium carbonate, a substance that the human body can’t digest. Eating pearls could potentially harm your digestive system.
What Is It?
Pearls are hard, lustrous spherical masses, typically white or bluish-gray, formed within the shell of a pearl oyster or other bivalve mollusk.
Historical Context
Historically, pearls have been used in medicines in many cultures, especially in traditional Chinese medicine. However, they were not consumed as food.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating pearls poses several risks:
- Indigestible: The human body can’t digest calcium carbonate, which is what pearls are made of.
- Choking hazard: Pearls, especially small ones, can be a choking hazard.
- Damage to teeth: Biting into a pearl can damage your teeth.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re looking for edible decorations for food or drinks, consider using edible glitter, sugar pearls, or gold leaf instead.