What should I do if my child ingested a silica gel packet?

My Child Ate Silica Gel ... If the child ingested more than one mouthful, is having symptoms, or if you are not positive of the exact substance or amount ingested, call your local Poison Center ... The concern with this substances it that it can be a choking hazard (this is why these packets often say 'DO NOT EAT' on them). read more

What It Is: Silica gel comes in the form of clear round balls in a paper or cloth packet. The packets are often found in new store-bought products (such as shoes, backpacks and handbags). The purpose of the silica gel packet is to absorb water and maintain dryness in these products. read more

Silica gel packets are printed with very strong words of caution DO NOT EAT, HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED, THROW AWAY. Parents may panic after reading the silica gel caution label, if their child puts the package in their mouth or eats the product. Rest assured, the contents of the packet, silica gel, is basically sand and it is not harmful if swallowed. read more

Give him a big glass of water or clear soda (Sprite, 7Up) and some crackers or pretzels. Although the packets say “do not eat” ingesting one packet of silica on one occasion won’t do any harm. The worst that can happen is an irritated stomach, which is why I suggested the drink and food. read more