Eating the Impossible: The Extraordinary Appetite of Monsieur Mangetout
Michel Lotito, known as Monsieur Mangetout, had a unique ability to consume indigestible objects. His diet included bicycles, shopping carts, televisions, and even a Cessna 150 airplane, leaving behind an unusual legacy when he passed away in 2007
By Beth Snider · November 24, 2023
Michel Lotito, a French artist born in Grenoble, France, in 1950, was not like most people. He discovered his unusual condition at the age of 16: the ability and desire to consume non-nutritive objects. Thanks to abnormally thick intestinal walls, Lotito’s digestive tract could consume just about anything, including metal objects and he could eat as much as 900 grams (2 lb) of metal per day without any side effects. While struggling to digest soft foods such as bananas, his body was also curiously immune to toxic substances such as lead.
Instead of hiding his abnormality from society, Lotito decided to make a career out of it, becoming Monsieur Mangetout (Mr. Eat-All). His performances involved the consumption of metal, glass, rubber, and other materials. He disassembled, cut up, and consumed items such as bicycles, shopping carts, televisions, and a Cessna 150, among other items. The Cessna airplane took roughly two years to be “eaten”, from 1978 to 1980.
Mangetout’s digestive tract is estimated to have seen as much as 9 tons of metal between 1959 and 1997. He claimed to experience no complications during his performances but was fond of consuming mineral oils and plenty of water. The man holds the ‘strangest diet’ award in the Guinness Book of Records. In case you’d like to try it out, here’s the full list of items Lotito consumed during his lifetime: At least: 18 bicycles 15 shopping carts 7 TV sets 6 chandeliers 2 beds 1 pair of skis 1 computer 1 Cessna 150 light aircraft 1 waterbed 500 meters (1,600 ft) of steel chain 1 coffin (with handles) and 1 Guinness award plaque
Lotito, who passed away in 2007 at the age of 57 from natural causes, left behind a remarkable legacy. His unique ability to consume indigestible objects showcased the strength that can arise from one’s differences. However, it’s crucial to approach his feats with caution and humor, as attempting such deeds at home or the Academy of Aviation is strongly discouraged. In jest, it’s emphasized that if someone were to devour one of their airplanes, no charges would be incurred for the damages. Nevertheless, the serious health risks associated with ingesting non-food items, such as heavy metal poisoning and potential damage to the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract, underline the importance of refraining from attempting such acts. Always keeping in mind the potential dangers, it’s advised: don’t try this.