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Poison Center Helpline 1-800-222-1222

Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Silica Gel

silica gel
Silica Gel is Usually Nontoxic .

If your child ate silica gel, give them a few sips of water.

What to know: Silica Gel

  • Silica gel can also be referred to as desiccant, silicic acid or H2SiO3.
  • Silica gel can be a choking hazard. If your child is choking on silica gel beads or a packet of them, call 911 immediately.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate silica gel. Is silica gel toxic? 

Silica gel is chemically inert and is usually considered nontoxic. It comes in the form of clear round beads in a paper or cloth packet and is usually found in new, store-bought products. It can be a choking hazard, which is why these packets often say 'DO NOT EAT" on them.

Symptoms of Poisoning

Eating silica gel usually doesn’t cause symptoms. If your child ate silica gel, give them a few sips of water.

Eye Exposure

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.

Have an urgent question or need more help?

Don't hesitate to call IPC at

1-800-222-1222

This call is free and confidential.

Poison Center HelplineCalls are free and confidential.

  1. In Case of Emergency

    Call 911 if someone is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing.

  2. Remain Calm

    Most poison emergencies can be resolved quickly over the phone.

  3. Call the Helpline

    Call 1-800-222-1222 if you are concerned that you or someone else has been exposed to a potentially harmful substance.