Experts Offer Advice on Safely Enjoying Snow Treats

Eating snow cones or snow cream can be a winter delight, but precautions are needed.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 2:47pm

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Doctors and snow experts provide guidance on how to safely enjoy snow-based treats like snow cones and snow cream, noting that while snow can be consumed, it's important to consider factors like pollution levels, timing, and ground contamination. They emphasize finding a balance between safety and allowing children to connect with nature through simple winter pleasures.

Why it matters

As a massive winter storm brings heavy snow and freezing conditions across a large swath of the U.S., many people may be tempted to make homemade snow treats like snow cream. However, experts caution that snow is not always clean enough to consume, and provide advice on how to safely indulge in these seasonal delights.

The details

Experts say that while snow may appear pristine, it can pick up pollutants and contaminants as it falls, especially in areas near industrial complexes. They recommend considering the trajectory of the snow and avoiding the first wave, which contains the most particulate matter. Ground contamination from road salt, deicing chemicals, and debris is another concern. Eating snow is not an effective way to hydrate, as the energy required to melt it in the mouth counteracts any benefits. Overall, experts advise finding a balance between safety and allowing children and others to connect with nature through simple winter activities.

  • The first wave of snow during a storm contains the most particulate matter.
  • The recent winter storm brought heavy snow and freezing conditions across a 1,300-mile stretch of the U.S.

The players

Dr. Sarah Crockett

A doctor who specializes in emergency and wilderness medicine at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

Steven Fassnacht

A professor of snow hydrology at Colorado State University who has studied snow for over 30 years.

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What they’re saying

“To stop and just be present and want to catch a snowflake on your tongue, or scoop up some fresh, white, untouched snow that's collected during something as exciting as a snowstorm, I think that there's space in our world to enjoy that.”

— Dr. Sarah Crockett, Doctor

“Snow can be eaten, but you want to think about the trajectory. Where did that snow come from?”

— Steven Fassnacht, Professor of Snow Hydrology

What’s next

Experts recommend that as the winter storm recedes, residents should be cautious about consuming snow and consider factors like pollution levels and ground contamination before making snow-based treats.

The takeaway

While eating snow can be a fun and whimsical winter activity, it's important to do so safely by considering the source and timing of the snow, as well as potential contaminants. Experts advise finding a balance between caution and allowing people, especially children, to connect with nature through simple pleasures.