The Effect of Silica Gel When Digested
Silica gel is not actually a gel. Rather it is a dry, granular, bead-like substance that is usually sealed in a paper packet, which is then added to substances that need to remain dry or which could be compromised by moisture. Silica gel acts as a desiccant to absorb moisture.
What is Silica Gel?
Silica gel, made from sodium silicate, is also known as water glass or liquid glass. Besides foodstuffs like crackers or salt, silica gel is also used to keep cat litter dry, preserve leather goods and remove moisture from medicines and medical equipment.
Silica Gel and the FDA
The FDA considers clear silica gel to be a safe preservative to use with human food because it has no poison that could cause long-term harm if accidentally consumed in the usual quantity of a small one-inch packet. It is classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
What Happens if I Eat Silica Gel?
If you eat clear silica gel, its moisture-absorbing properties may cause gastrointestinal distress.
What if the Silica Gel is not Clear?
If the silica gel is not clear, a moisture indicator known as cobalt chloride has been added. The gel may be pink or blue. Cobalt chloride is a toxic chemical and may be carcinogenic-call your local poison control immediately as you may need to get it out of your system as soon as possible.
Silica Gel and Small Children
The American Association of Poison Control Centers considers silica gel to be more of a choking hazard for small children than a danger during the digestive process, but if your child does eat silica gel, they suggest calling the National Poison Help Line: (800) 222-1222 for the poison control center nearest you.
Silica Gel and Your Pet's Digestion
According to AnimalForum.com, if your pet eats bits of silica gel, or your cat eats cat litter treated with silica gel, they may experience gastrointestinal distress, nausea and vomiting while they digest it. A cat that continues to consume and digest treated cat litter can develop intestinal blockages.
Tags: clear silica, Effect Silica, Effect Silica When, gastrointestinal distress, silica they, Silica When
