Is it safe to eat rubber cement?
Quick Answer
No
Rubber cement is not safe to ingest. It is a type of adhesive made from elastic polymers mixed in a solvent to keep them fluid enough to be used. Ingesting it can lead to serious health issues, including poisoning, choking, and damage to internal organs.
What Is It?
Rubber cement is a type of adhesive made from elastic polymers (typically latex) mixed in a solvent such as acetone, hexane or heptane to keep them fluid enough to be used. It is commonly used in arts, crafts, and industrial applications.
Why It Can Be Risky
Ingesting rubber cement poses several serious health risks:
- Poisoning: The solvents in rubber cement can be toxic if ingested.
- Choking: If swallowed, rubber cement can form a blockage in the throat or digestive tract.
- Damage to internal organs: The harsh chemicals in rubber cement can cause damage to the stomach, liver, and other internal organs.