Generally, printer ink is considered to have low toxicity, especially for humans. However, it's not something you should intentionally consume.
While the World Health Organization recommends drinking plenty of water if you've swallowed printer ink, this doesn't mean it's harmless. Think of it similarly to dish soap – generally not considered highly dangerous in small amounts, but definitely not a beverage.
Here's a breakdown:
- Low Toxicity: The chemicals in most printer inks are not highly poisonous.
- Not Recommended for Consumption: Despite low toxicity, eating or drinking printer ink is still not advisable.
- Potential Irritation: Ingestion might cause mild irritation of the mouth, throat, or stomach.
- Skin Contact: Skin contact with printer ink may cause mild irritation or staining. Washing with soap and water is usually sufficient.
- Inhalation: Inhaling printer ink mist or fumes is generally not harmful in small amounts, but prolonged exposure in poorly ventilated areas could cause respiratory irritation.
Therefore, while printer ink isn't considered highly poisonous, it's still best to avoid contact and especially ingestion. Treat it like any other household chemical: handle with care and keep it out of reach of children.
