A few days ago, we asked for input as to what was on this Florida inmate’s face.

Analysts were split on whether Arie Patterson, 36, was covered in paint; eggs; mustard; creamsicles; pudding; Velveeta cheese; or even Big Bird ejaculate.

According to cops, however, the theft suspect is covered in Sabre pepper foam, which Broward County jailers use to gain compliance from uncooperative inmates. According to Dani Moschella, a sheriff’s spokesperson, Patterson was sprayed three times when he tussled with deputies seeking to fingerprint and photograph him.

“The foam is similar to pepper spray, but it doesn’t shoot as far, which is useful in close quarters such as a jail,” noted Moschella.

After the foam blasting, Patterson became cooperative. But he refused to be decontaminated or treated by emergency medical personnel.

“In an effort to safely and quickly complete the fingerprint and mug shot process and return him to his cell, deputies took his photo immediately,” said Moschella, who added, “They later took a new photo.”

Frankly, we preferred the Big Bird theory.