Is Eating Gold Safe?

If you've been scrolling social media lately or visiting high-end restaurants then chances are you've seen a food item adorned with gold leaf. Although this seems like a new gastronomical trend the practice of using gold for food decoration is actually quite old and goes back millennia.

Whether it is sprinkled on sweet or savory dishes, used as an entire sheet to encase a sushi roll or placed on top of ice cream the shiny metal has become increasingly popular as a way to elevate food into a work of art. While it may seem a bit absurd to eat a piece of gold-plated pizza or a burger covered in edible glitter, the precious metal is actually very safe when used in the right amount.

As long as the edible gold is 23 to 24 karat and certified as food-grade, it should not have any metallic taste or effect on the overall flavor of the dish. Gold is biologically inert, which means it won't be absorbed by your body and will pass through your system as waste.

Historically, gold was often used as a decorative embellishment to show off wealth and status. It was also once believed to have health benefits including preventing heart disease and strengthening the immune system. In fact, a recipe for gold-covered meat found in a 15th-century Italian cookbook even suggested eating it to protect against the plague.

In addition to its obvious aesthetic value, gold is also a great conductor of heat and can add a warm and toasty flavor to certain foods. While it is perfectly safe to eat edible gold, experts recommend only enjoying it on rare occasions.