In an article titled “Snow really happened in Florida. Is it safe to eat snow?” the Tallahassee Democrat warns the Sunshine State’s newly-frosted denizens to avoid eating the precipitation.
“While it may appear clean and pristine, the light snowfall across the state likely isn’t enough to make it safe for consumption. As snow falls, it can collect bacteria, microplastics, and pollutants from the atmosphere, such as carbon from coal-fired plants and wood-burning stoves,” they write.
However some exceptions are provided in the article. “When it comes to eating snow, not all of it is created equal. While fresh snow may look appealing, there are several factors to consider to ensure it’s safe and clean. Laura Martin, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Ohio State University College of Medicine, previously shared some expert tips with Food & Wine on how to safely enjoy snow, emphasizing the importance of avoiding contaminants and harvesting it properly. Here’s what to keep in mind: Stick to pure white snow: Avoid gray, brown, muddy — and most importantly — yellow snow.” Holy fuck they actually have to tell people not to eat yellow snow.