No, you should not eat lime powder, especially in large quantities.
Lime powder, also known as quicklime (calcium oxide), is a caustic substance. While the term "lime" can refer to the citrus fruit, in this context, it refers to the chemical compound used in construction and agriculture.
Dangers of Ingesting Lime Powder
Ingesting lime powder can have serious health consequences:
- Irritation and Burns: Lime is highly alkaline and can cause severe irritation and burns to the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach.
- Internal Damage: It can lead to pain, vomiting, bleeding, and diarrhea.
- Systemic Effects: In severe cases, ingestion can cause a drop in blood pressure, collapse, and even perforation of the esophagus or stomach lining.
- Respiratory Issues: Inhaling lime dust during handling can irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing and sneezing.
Why Lime Powder is Used
Lime powder has several industrial uses:
- Construction: Used in making mortar and plaster.
- Agriculture: Used to adjust soil pH.
- Industrial Processes: Used in various chemical processes.
It is important to distinguish lime powder (calcium oxide) from hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide), which is still caustic but somewhat less so. Neither should be ingested.
In summary, while "lime" might conjure images of a citrus fruit, lime powder is a dangerous chemical compound not meant for consumption.
