Is it safe to eat currency?
Quick Answer
No
Eating currency is not safe due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria and other contaminants. Additionally, the materials used in the production of currency, such as paper, ink, and metallic elements, are not digestible and can cause harm to the digestive system.
What Is It?
Currency refers to a system of money in general use in a particular country, including coins and banknotes.
Why It Can Be Risky
There are several risks associated with eating currency:
- Ingesting harmful bacteria or other contaminants present on the currency.
- Potential choking hazard, especially with coins.
- Damage to the digestive system due to indigestible materials.
- Possible toxicity from the inks and metals used in currency production.
Safe Alternatives
Instead of eating currency, consider other safer novelty items such as edible paper or candy coins.
Legal Considerations
In many jurisdictions, defacing or destroying currency is illegal, which may include eating it.