UK polymer banknotes are edible and washable.

(Baonghean.vn) - The new polymer £5 note used in the UK can withstand hot water in the washing machine and will not cause indigestion if eaten. In addition, the Bank of England also said it is very difficult to counterfeit with printing technology that can only be seen under a microscope.

Bank of England Governor Mark Carney testing the features of the new £5 polymer note. Photo: NY Times.

On September 13, the Bank of England officially issued a new polymer banknote with a face value of £5. This new polymer banknote is considered environmentally friendly and more durable than traditional paper banknotes. In addition, it is difficult to counterfeit and resistant to moisture and dirt.

"This polymer note has undergone a number of rigorous tests," said Bank of England Governor Mark Carney.

Mr Carney said he tried putting the note in his jeans pocket and putting it in a washing machine using water at 40 degrees Celsius. The result was that the note kept its original shape and did not crumple.

Victoria Cleland, the bank's chief accountant, said the new note had also been tested in a lab by medical experts to ensure that pets or children who accidentally chewed on it would not become ill. Despite the test, Cleland still advised people not to swallow it.

The £5 note features the image of famous politician Winston Churchill. Previously, the Bank of England had proposed a series of other famous British people to be printed on this note, including William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, Adam Smith and Florence Nightingale. In addition, the British public also suggested Princess Diana, David Bowie and football player David Beckham.

Thanh Hien

(According to New York Times)