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Remarkable Lollipops Use Science to Glow Under UV Lights

At first glance, it's hard to tell what this small thing is. It glows in the dark and could resemble something that's out of this world. But, it's actually a lollipop that uses the phenomena of fluorescence to create a playful and edible treat! Combing candy, fun, and science, a simple-but-crucial ingredient allows this lollipop to absorb energy from ultraviolet (UV) light.

Madrid-based site Verde Matcha made the sweet treat using sugar, tonic water, corn syrup, lemon juice, and a vanilla pod. The water contains a substance called quinine that produces a bright blue color when it's under UV light. So, to fully enjoy the immediately-brightening effect of the lollipop, you'll need to have a black light handy.

Tonic water is safe to eat and drink, so if you're interested in making your own fluorescent pops, check out Verde Matcha's recipe. We'd imagine that this would be a lot of fun at a high-energy dance party in lieu of your standard glow stick. Not only can you wave it around like one, but you lick it, too!

Vedre Matcha website

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled "Embroidered Life" that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
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