Tag: Quicklime

Did you know that the word "calcium" comes from the Latin term *calx*, which means 'lime'? While the element itself is simply calcium, the question "what is calcium also known as" often refers to its diverse compounds and their everyday aliases, such as quicklime and limestone.

According to a case report from the National Institutes of Health, accidental ingestion of calcium oxide (quicklime) as a food desiccant caused severe chemical burns in an elderly patient. This incident highlights the critical danger of consuming calcium oxide, a highly corrosive chemical, and underscores why it is not safe to consume.

Ingesting calcium oxide (quicklime) causes severe chemical burns to the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. The highly corrosive nature of calcium oxide means that consuming it in water is exceptionally hazardous, and should always be avoided.

According to the National Institutes of Health, accidental ingestion of quicklime—a type of lime powder—can cause severe chemical burns and potentially life-threatening complications. The question, 'is it okay to eat lime powder?' requires a critical distinction between different types of lime to ensure safety.