Are there any foods that glow?: Demystifying Luminous and Nutritious Options

October 31, 2025 •

3 min read

While bioluminescent fungi can light up a forest floor, many people still wonder: Are there any foods that glow? The answer is complex, spanning from literal self-generated light to the nutritional compounds that create a fluorescent effect under UV light, as well as the 'glow' of healthy skin from a good diet.

Quick Summary

This article examines the different types of foods that can appear to glow, from naturally bioluminescent organisms and fluorescent compounds under UV light to nutrient-dense foods that promote healthy, radiant skin from within.

Key Points

Bioluminescent fungi: Some mushrooms, like Mycena and Omphalotus, naturally produce light through a chemical reaction, but many are inedible or poisonous.
Fluorescence under UV light: Many common foods like tonic water (quinine), milk (riboflavin), and honey contain compounds that glow when exposed to a 'black' light.
Chlorophyll's glow: Green leafy vegetables and oils containing chlorophyll will fluoresce red or orange-red when viewed under UV light.
The 'glow' of nutrition: A healthy diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats is the best way to achieve a radiant complexion, giving you a healthy 'glow' from within.
Distinguish the types: It is important to differentiate between self-luminous bioluminescent organisms, UV-reactive fluorescent compounds, and metaphorically healthy 'glow foods'.

The concept of 'glowing food' conjures images of science fiction, but the reality is a fascinating mix of genuine biological phenomena, optical illusions, and nutritional science. When investigating the question, are there any foods that glow?, it is important to distinguish between bioluminescence, fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) light, and the metaphorical 'glow' associated with a healthy diet.

Bioluminescence vs. Fluorescence: The Key Differences

Not all light-emitting effects in nature are the same. Understanding the distinction is crucial to answering our central question. Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism as a result of a chemical reaction, similar to fireflies. Fluorescence is the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation, appearing to glow when exposed to a UV or 'black' light. The third interpretation, 'glow foods,' refers to nutrient-dense items that promote a healthy, radiant complexion from the inside out.

The Rare and Inedible Realm of Bioluminescent Fungi

Certain species of fungi are among the few organisms that produce their own light. However, many of these species are inedible or even poisonous, making them a poor choice for consumption. Notable examples include Mycena chlorophos, a small mushroom found in Asia that emits a pale-green glow, and Omphalotus olearius (Jack-o'-Lantern mushroom) which glows from its gills but can cause severe gastrointestinal distress if eaten. Another poisonous example is Omphalotus nidiformis (Ghost fungus) from Australia, known for its ethereal green light. The light from these fungi is produced through a chemical reaction involving luciferin and luciferase. While fascinating to see in a dark environment, they are not meant for the dinner table.

Fluorescent Compounds in Common Edible Items

Many common foods contain compounds that fluoresce brightly under a black light, offering a fun visual effect. One prominent example is tonic water, where the quinine glows a brilliant blue under UV light. Honey also fluoresces with a yellow or green color due to its various aromatic molecules and flavonoids. The vitamin riboflavin (B2) in milk and some dairy products causes them to glow a pale yellow or blue-white, while the amino acid tryptophan can give raw egg whites a faint blue fluorescence. Olive oil, particularly extra virgin, can show an orange or yellow-green glow from chlorophyll and other compounds. Even ripe banana peels can subtly fluoresce blue due to chlorophyll breakdown products.

The Nutritious 'Glow' of a Healthy Diet

For many, 'glow food' signifies items rich in nutrients that contribute to healthy skin, hair, and nails, resulting in a vibrant appearance. This radiance comes from nourishing the body from within.

Antioxidants: Foods like berries, tomatoes, and green tea are packed with antioxidants that protect skin cells and reduce inflammation.
Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish such as salmon and healthy fats from avocados help maintain skin hydration and elasticity.
Vitamins: Vitamin C, found in citrus and bell peppers, is essential for collagen production, while Vitamin A, present in sweet potatoes and carrots, aids cell renewal and protects against sun damage.
Hydrating Foods: Fruits like watermelon contribute to maintaining skin's youthful look and elasticity through hydration.

Comparing Luminous and Nutritional 'Glowing' Foods


Feature	Bioluminescent Fungi	Fluorescent Foods (UV)	Nutrient-Dense 'Glow' Foods
Mechanism	Self-generated chemical reaction (luciferin/luciferase)	Absorb UV light, emit visible light	Provide nutrients for healthy body functions
Visibility	In a completely dark environment	Requires a black light source	Seen as healthy, radiant complexion
Edibility	Mostly inedible and some are poisonous	Safe to eat (tonic, honey, milk)	Healthy and edible
Examples	Mycena chlorophos, Omphalotus olearius	Tonic water, honey, olive oil, milk	Berries, fish, avocados, leafy greens

Conclusion

While truly bioluminescent food is a rare and often inedible phenomenon, many everyday ingredients offer a temporary glow under a black light. The most impactful and lasting 'glow,' however, stems from a balanced nutrition diet rich in essential nutrients. These foods contribute to a vibrant appearance by promoting health from within. Therefore, while luminous mushrooms may not be on the menu, a diet focused on nutrient-dense foods is key to achieving a natural, radiant glow.

Read more about how to create fluorescent foods for fun on Atlas Obscura.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, most bioluminescent mushrooms are inedible and some are poisonous, like the Jack-o'-Lantern mushroom and Ghost fungus. It is best to admire their glow from a distance rather than consuming them.

Tonic water is a prime example, glowing bright blue due to its quinine content. Milk, honey, olive oil, and some vitamin B-rich foods also fluoresce under UV light.

The vitamin riboflavin, also known as B2, is the compound in milk and other dairy products that causes them to glow a yellow or blue-white color under a black light.

No, they are different. Nutritional 'glow foods' are those rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote skin health and radiance. Real glowing foods either self-illuminate (bioluminescent fungi) or fluoresce under UV light.

No, eating foods that fluoresce naturally is generally not harmful. The effect is caused by naturally occurring, safe compounds like vitamins and chlorophyll. The UV light is also what creates the effect, not the food itself.

You can create a temporary glowing effect by using ingredients like tonic water in clear drinks or Jell-O. For best results, serve these under a black light and use white or clear dishes that will reflect the light brightly.

For truly healthy, glowing skin, focus on a diet rich in antioxidants from berries and leafy greens, healthy fats from fish and avocados, and vitamins C and A found in citrus and sweet potatoes.