The internet is once again buzzing with a bizarre trend: eating packing peanuts. While not as alarming as the infamous Tide Pod challenge, the practice has raised serious questions about safety. TikTok users have discovered that Lush, a cosmetics brand, uses “edible” packing peanuts for shipping, leading to a surge in videos of people consuming them.
Packing peanuts are made from vegetable starch, a biodegradable alternative to traditional styrofoam. However, experts caution that just because something can be eaten, doesn’t mean it should be.
Not All Peanuts Are Created Equal
It’s crucial to distinguish between types of packing peanuts. Most are still made of styrofoam, which is not intended for consumption. While non-toxic, styrofoam can cause choking or blockages in the digestive tract, according to the National Capital Poison Center.
Biodegradable peanuts, often made from cornstarch, potato starch, or other plant-based materials, are a more environmentally friendly option. These peanuts dissolve in water, distinguishing them from styrofoam. However, even these “edible” alternatives may not be produced in food-safe environments.
The Potential Risks of Consumption
Most peanuts are made from potato starch. Nurse Practitioner Angelica McGough, DNP, MSN, explains that the heating process used to create these peanuts can trigger the Maillard reaction, producing acrylamide, a known carcinogen.
Furthermore, not all biodegradable peanuts are entirely edible. Some may contain water-repellent or recycled materials.
Dr. Larissa L. Garth, DMSc, MPH, MPAS, PA-C, notes that while pure potato starch may offer some health benefits like increased satiety, consuming packing peanuts can also lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence.
McGough also highlights that the vegetable oils used in some biodegradable peanuts are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to chronic inflammation when consumed in excess. Additionally, heated oils and acrylamide have been linked to various cancers.
The Bottom Line
While the internet may portray these Cheeto-like puffs as a novel snack, the potential health risks outweigh any perceived novelty. Sticking to actual food is the safest option.
