Can you eat polar bear claw keratin? | EatWeirdThings.com

Can you eat polar bear claw keratin?

Quick Answer

No

Polar bear claw keratin is not edible. It’s made of a tough protein that the human body cannot digest. Moreover, consuming parts of a polar bear can be dangerous due to high levels of toxins.

Illustration of moldy bread

What Is It?

Keratin is a type of protein that makes up the claws, hair, and skin of animals, including polar bears. It’s a hard, insoluble substance that the human body cannot digest.

Why It Can Be Risky

Eating polar bear claw keratin poses several risks:

  • Indigestibility: The human body cannot digest keratin, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
  • Toxicity: Polar bears are at the top of the food chain in the Arctic and accumulate high levels of toxins in their bodies. These toxins can be harmful to humans.

Safe Alternatives

For those seeking a source of protein, there are many safer and more digestible options available, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based proteins like beans and lentils.

Legal Considerations

It’s also important to note that polar bears are protected species in many regions, and hunting or harming them is illegal.