Innovation is a fundamental pillar for entrepreneurs, but what happens when it represents a health risk? This is ‘Popocachelatl’, a beer prepared with supposed ash from the Popocatépetl volcano.
Through social networks, the controversial drink, which according to the creators, carries ash from the volcano in the form of frosting, went viral.
The ‘Popo’ or ‘Don Goyo’, as it is popularly called, has been active, that is, it has exhalations and throws ashes into nearby areas. So, this of course has concerned the authorities and some citizens.
So much has been the volcanic activity that face-to-face classes in the state of Puebla have been suspended and outdoor activities have been restricted. In addition, the National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred) and the National Coordination of Civil Protection decided to raise the phase of the Yellow Volcanic Alert Traffic Light from Phase 2 to Phase 3, in order to avoid damage and health risks.
The ‘Popocachelatl’ and the ash with which business is done
However, the ingenuity, humor or the way of ‘making a killing’ of Mexicans is still present in the face of tragedy. For example, according to the portal Market2.0the ashes of the Popocatépetl volcano are being sold in the Facebook Marketplace, where a bag with a kilo can cost up to 11 thousand pesos.
On the other hand, through the TikTok account of the Puerto Escondido resort, located in San Andrés Cholula, Puebla, he promoted the ‘Popocachelatl’. In the video they show how they frost with a gray powder, then pour the beer and finally add salt chef style Salt Bae.
Although no one has yet confirmed that it is indeed ashes from the Popocatépetl volcano or a simple joke, the question is heard in the clip “And how are the micheladas in Puebla?”, to later answer: “well, with ashes from the volcano”.
@balneariopuertoescondido We open every day at the Puerto Escondido #aquaticpark. We are located in the magical town of #cholula #popocatepetl #humor #ceniza #parati #volcan #dongoyo #michelada #puebla #fyp #pompeya ♬ The baby – Yng Lvcas
Surprisingly, the comments on the post, which already has over 1.3 million views (so far), are positive. For example, it reads “Volcanic micheladas. An explosion of flavor“, “As always, my beautiful Mexico taking advantage of any situation”, “As I love my Mexico to bad life, they give it a good face”, “Cheniza or popocacheve?” “Taste that explodes”“I felt like it”, among others.
Given the doubt that the Popocachelatl’ was indeed prepared with ashes from the Popocatépetl volcano, The Sun of Puebla contacted the spa and solve the mystery, which replied:
“It’s a joke that many people never thought would believe it, however, something similar has already been made, and no, it’s not real ash.”
Is the ash from the volcano harmful to Popocatépetl? Yeah!
According to the Pan American Health Organizationboth inhalation and ingestion of water and food contaminated with volcanic ash can have repercussions, since it contains fluoride and heavy metals such as cobalt and arsenic.
This can impact health upon contact with the body. For example, if it is respiratory, the person could develop Asthma or exacerbate a pre-existing lung disease, as well as Silicosis. In the case of consumption, its effects are reflected in gastrointestinal discomfort and even death in a vulnerable population. In addition, it is recommended to use face masks or handkerchiefs and protective glasses, the latter to avoid conjunctivitis and corneal injuries.
For his part, Civil protection explains that although ash is not toxic by itself, if viewed under a microscope, it is seen to be made up of very fine shards of rock resembling ground glass. Therefore, it is corrosive and irritating.
Editorial Team The editorial team of EMPRENDEDOR.com, which for more than 27 years has worked to promote entrepreneurship.