Readers ask: Are Copper Mugs Safe?

Copper mugs are safe to drink from, and most Moscow mule mugs are lined with another material that fully eliminates the concern of copper exposure and copper toxicity. Even with an unlined mug, copper poisoning is only possible if there is a great amount of copper exposure to the body.

What should you not drink in a copper mug?

According to this US State department, Copper is prohibited from coming into contact with foods that have a pH level below 6.0, for example, vinegar, fruit juice and wine. The pH value of the Moscow Mule cocktail which is generally served in a copper mug is well below 6.0.

Can copper mugs make you sick?

People exposed to excessive amounts of copper can get sick, but you’re far more likely to feel sick from the excessive consumption of vodka in too many Moscow mules than from the copper in the mug. The FDA recommends a daily intake of 900 micrograms of copper. There aren’t many copper mug poisoning issues reported.

Are copper mugs safe for hot drinks?

Since they retain both hot and cold so beautifully, copper mugs are the perfect vessel for all manner of drinks, all year long. Of course, their high thermal conductivity means you should practice caution when serving piping hot drinks in them.

Can you drink tea out of a copper mug?

Copper mugs were originally made for Moscow mules and other alcohol-based drinks. But you shouldn’t worry about using them for hot beverages such as chocolate, tea, coffee, and other hot drinks.

Can you get copper poisoning from copper mugs?

“When copper and copper alloy surfaces contact acidic foods, copper may be leached into the food,” the division notes. Symptoms of copper poisoning include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and jaundice, according to the National Institutes of Health. “Sudden (acute) copper poisoning is rare,” NIH says.

Why do you drink a Moscow mule out of a copper cup?

Whether Morgan and Martin realized it or not, the copper mugs were the perfect glass for a mule. Copper is very good at conducting temperature, so when an ice cold mule is poured inside, the glass actually takes on that temperature and keeps the drink frosty cold longer.

Is drinking from copper bad for you?

Your body needs some copper to stay healthy, but too much is harmful. This information is also available as a PDF document: Copper in Drinking Water (PDF). Eating or drinking too much copper can cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, liver damage, and kidney disease.

Why copper is toxic?

Copper toxicity can result from chronic or long-term exposure to high levels of copper through contaminated food and water sources. Symptoms of this condition include diarrhea, headaches, and in severe cases, kidney failure. Certain genetic disorders, such as Wilson’s disease, can also lead to copper toxicity.

Do Moscow Mule mugs have to be solid copper?

The Moscow Mule is traditionally served in a solid copper mug, but on occasion is served in a highball or cocktail glass. In fact, many Moscow Mule enthusiasts won’t even consider serving the drink without the copper mug.

How do you clean copper mugs?

Use a blend of 3 parts Baking Soda and 1 part Vinegar to create a paste. Using a wet sponge or cloth then apply the paste on the copper mug and let it sit. Finally, scrub, hand wash and rinse with a soft sponge and clean water to remove tarnish and the cleaning paste.

Why is copper not used for hot drinks?

“They may feel colder but that’s only an illusion,” Dr. Begley says. “ Copper mugs actually absorb heat from the room faster than a glass.” Copper is an excellent thermal conductor, meaning it transfers heat from hot sources (like the room or your hand) to cold sources (like your drink) very efficiently.

Are copper mugs dishwasher safe?

Copper mugs are generally not dishwasher safe. Not only will your copper mugs tarnish and look weathered, but they may also pose a small but unlikely risk to your patrons. For these reasons, it is important to wash coated or lined copper mugs by hand.