The Safety and Potential Hazards of Eating Roof Snow

While eating snow may seem like a temptation in chilly weather, it’s not always the best idea, especially if you’re planning to do it in a place with a snow-covered roof. This article delves into the potential risks involved, including contamination, radioactivity, and dehydration, and explores the historical practice of making snow ice cream.

Is Eating Roof Snow Safe?

Eating snow from your roof is not recommended unless you have a compelling reason, such as being stranded and in dire need of water, as it can be harmful. The air we breathe and the surfaces we touch hold various pollutants that are not visible to the naked eye.

Contamination Risks

When snow accumulates on a roof, it can become contaminated with pollutants, soot, and other debris that have settled during the winter season. While the top layer of snow might be relatively clean, the bottom layer can accumulate more contaminants due to its longer exposure to the environment. Therefore, consuming this snow can expose you to these harmful substances.

Health Hazards

Health experts advise against consuming rooftop snow, as it may contain dangerous pollutants. However, if you’re in a situation where you have no other option for water, consuming snow can help you stay hydrated. It’s crucial to ensure that the snow you consume is clean and uncontaminated. Never consume discolored or sooty snow, as it may pose significant health risks.

A Historical Delicacy: Snow Ice Cream

Historically, consuming snow as a form of ice cream has been a popular treat in many parts of the world, especially in snowy regions. The process involves collecting clean snow and mixing it with sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and other flavorings. This method provides a simple and refreshing way to enjoy a delicious dessert during the winter months.

Early Recollection: Snow Ice Cream in the 1950s-60s

When the author was a child in the 1950s and 60s, snow ice cream was a cherished treat. On a snowy day, they would bundle up and venture outside with a large bowl to collect clean snow. Back in the kitchen, their mother would prepare by making punctures in the lid of a can of sweetened condensed milk and mixing it with a few tablespoons of vanilla extract. The snow would be mixed briefly, and the result was a delightful and refreshing dessert.

Modern Warnings and Concerns

In 1961, during fourth grade, the author’s teacher, Miss Gill, warned the class not to eat snow ice cream due to the presence of radioactive fallout from nuclear bomb tests. This warning caused alarm and concern, especially since the long-term effects of radiation exposure were not well understood. Fast-forward to the present day, after the ban on above-ground nuclear bomb tests, the question remains: is rooftop snow now safe to eat?

While the use of sweetened condensed milk has been replaced with vegan alternatives, the question of whether snow is now clean enough for consumption remains. The author, having been vegan for decades, suggests using soy milk as a substitute for Borden’s milk. However, the safety of roof snow is still a matter of concern, and it’s essential to weigh the risks before consuming it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while eating snow from a roof may seem harmless, it can pose health risks due to contamination and potential radioactivity. However, if you’re in a survival situation, snow can provide hydration. By understanding the risks and taking necessary precautions, you can make informed decisions about consuming the snow from your roof.