Silica Gel is very safe and it NOT a "gel". It will remain a solid even when fully absorbed with moisture. It is used everyday in regular goods and even food. You will find in spices "anti-caking agent" which is normally Silica Gel powder used right in with the foods.
There is some Silica Gel that is BLUE in color that contains Cobalt Chloride. This stuff has been "which is classified as a IARC Group 2B carcinogen." (via
http://www.silicagelpackets.com/indicating-silica-gel-packets/ ) so it would be wise to avoid this stuff or throw it away if you have it!
They seem to make other stuff that is Orange Indicating Silica Gel that does NOT contain Cobalt Chloride. Please use this!
