- It is recognized as a GRAS(Generally recognized as safe) by the FDA - According to Carolinas Poison Center, "silica gel is non-toxic, meaning that it is not poisonous if eaten.  The package says "DO NOT EAT" because (1) it is not food, and (2) it could be a choking hazard. The whole packet, granules, or beads may become lodged in the throat of a small child or animal." - Silica gel beads are usually white, but cobalt chloride is added to serve as an indicator (blue to pink).  Cobalt chloride is known as carcinogen. That's why we don't recommend blue indicating beads to be used for food.