Context:
The Crime Branch in Pune and seized 550 grams of ambergris, also known as ‘floating gold’.
About Ambergris
It has long been recognized as one of nature’s most enigmatic phenomena.
Ambergris which means grey amber in French, is a waxy substance that originates from the digestive system of protected sperm whales.
The freshly passed ambergris is a light yellowish substance.
Chemically, ambergris contains alkaloids, acids, and a specific compound called ambreine, which is similar to cholesterol.
It is a rare substance, which contributes to its high demand and high price in the international market.
It is used
- To produce perfumes which have notes of musk.
- While there are records of it being used to flavour food, alcoholic beverages and tobacco in some cultures in the past.
There is a ban on the possession and trade of ambergris in countries like the USA, Australia and India.
Can you eat ambergris?
Ambergris is formed in the sperm whale’s digestive system and is said to include pollutants and dangerous microorganisms, hence it is not thought to be safe for human ingestion.
The chemical is frequently discovered floating in the water as well, where it may have been exposed to contaminants or other dangerous elements.
There have been some stories of people using it as a food seasoning, but it is not advised because there is not enough data to say whether eating it is safe and because it is unlawful to harvest in the majority of nations.
Ambergris should normally be handled with caution and kept out of the mouth. To accurately identify ambergris, it is best to speak with a local authority or a marine biologist.
Why ambergris is prohibited?
Due to the fact that sperm whales, an endangered species covered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, create ambergris, it is forbidden in many nations (CITES).
Many nations forbid the killing of sperm whales for food or other purposes, as well as the trading in goods derived from them.
A lot of nations also forbid the trading in goods made from endangered animals, which would include ambergris.
It is vital to remember that, unless you are a researcher or a marine biologist with the necessary permits, it is unlawful to import, export, or sell ambergris. Possession of the substance may also be prohibited.
FAQs about Ambergris:
A: Ambergris is a waxy substance that originates from the digestive system of protected sperm whales. It is often referred to as “floating gold.”
A: Freshly passed ambergris is a light yellowish substance.
A: Ambergris contains alkaloids, acids, and a specific compound called ambreine, which is similar to cholesterol.
A: Ambergris is primarily used in the production of perfumes, adding musky notes. In the past, there have been records of it being used to flavor food, alcoholic beverages, and tobacco in certain cultures.
A: It is not considered safe for human consumption. Ambergris is formed in the sperm whale’s digestive system and may contain pollutants and dangerous microorganisms. There is insufficient data to determine its safety, and it is illegal to harvest in most countries.
Read also:- Whale Shark Day: History and Significance
