What happens if you eat a silica gel packet?

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Vivian Jiang |

TED-Ed

• March 2026

Of the many, many things we’re not supposed to snack on, perhaps the most common forbidden food is silica gel. This tiny packet pops up in packaging for everything — from TVs and guitar cases to sunscreen and snack foods. So why is silica gel everywhere, and what would actually happen if you ate it? Vivian Jiang digs into the science of this pervasive product. [Directed by Denys Spolitak, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Stephen LaRosa, Wonder Boy Audio].