Firecrackers contain a mixture of explosives, oxidizers, colorants, binders, and stabilizers:
Explosives
The main explosive in crackers is gunpowder, which is a mixture of potassium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur.
Oxidizers
These provide oxygen to help the fuel burn. Examples include sodium nitrate and potassium chlorate.
Colorants
These produce different colors, and are usually made from metal salts like strontium or sodium.
Binders
These bind the pellets together. An example is dextrin.
Stabilizers
These help stabilize the firecracker. Examples include linseed oil and boric acid.
Firecrackers are lightweight explosive devices that produce light and sound effects. They are packaged in paper or cardboard canisters.
Exposure to the chemicals in firecrackers can be dangerous and cause a range of health issues, including:
Sulfur dioxide: Can cause heart, eye, hearing, liver, and kidney damage.
Barium: Certain compounds, like barium acetate, are highly poisonous.
Potassium nitrate: Can irritate the respiratory tract and cause shortness of breath, gastric pain, and dizziness.
If you’re looking to make bomb (delicious and flavorful) crackers, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a recipe that amps up the flavor of regular crackers, turning them into a tasty snack that’s addicting:
Bomb Flavored Crackers Ingredients>
1. sleeve of Ritz crackers (or any crackers you like)
1. packet of ranch seasoning mix
½. cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1. tsp garlic powder
1. tsp onion powder
1. tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1. tsp dried dill (optional)
1. tsp paprika (for color and flavor)
1. tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a nice touch)
Instructions:
Prep the Crackers: Lay the crackers in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Make sure they’re arranged in a way that they can all be coated evenly.
Make the Flavoring Mix: In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dill, Parmesan (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to mix everything together.
Add the Oil: Pour the olive oil into the spice mix, and stir until the oil is fully incorporated into the dry ingredients.
Coat the Crackers: Pour the seasoned oil over the crackers. If you’re using a bowl, toss them gently with your hands or a spoon until they’re well-coated. If you’re using a resealable bag, seal it and shake it well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Let Them Soak: Let the crackers sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, but the longer they sit, the better. If you have time, leave them in the bag or bowl overnight.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the crackers have soaked up the flavor, they’re ready to eat! You can store them in an airtight container for up to a week.