Can You Eat Snow?
Fresh, clean white snow is generally safe to eat in small amounts. Avoid snow near roads (contains pollution and road salt), yellow or discolored snow, and old snow on the ground (accumulates pollutants). Snow is not a good hydration source in survival situations because eating it lowers body temperature. Melt snow before drinking if possible.
Key Takeaways
- Freshly fallen white snow in clean areas is relatively pure.
- Snow in pristine wilderness areas is generally cleaner than urban snow.
- Pink or 'watermelon snow' is colored by algae and can cause digestive upset.
Explanation
Freshly fallen white snow in clean areas is relatively pure. Snowflakes form around tiny particles in the air, but these nuclei are usually too small to be harmful. The primary safety concern is what snow picks up from the environment - pollution, dirt, animal waste, or road chemicals.
Snow should be avoided near roads (vehicle exhaust and road treatments contaminate it), in urban areas (higher air pollution), if discolored (yellow, brown, or gray), if it has been on the ground for days (accumulates pollutants and bacteria), and if it has an unusual smell. First snowfall can contain more pollutants than later snows.
In survival situations, do not eat snow for hydration if you are already cold. Your body uses precious energy to melt and warm the snow, which can accelerate hypothermia. Melt snow in a container using body heat or fire before drinking. In normal recreational settings, occasional clean snow eating is fine.
Things to Know
- Snow in pristine wilderness areas is generally cleaner than urban snow.
- Pink or 'watermelon snow' is colored by algae and can cause digestive upset.
- Artificial snow at ski resorts may contain additives and should not be eaten.