i found out about silica gel & limestone. there are different types of silica gel. all are non toxic. the food type is used in things such as beer,soy sauce & vinegar to keep them clear.the type to use for keeping things dry are colored blue & when they absord moisture they turn pink, so you know they have to be replaced.they are available from www.confectioneryarts.com.the limestone also comes in different types. the food type is fed to poultry & farm animals to make their shells & bones harder. it has calcium in it. according to albert uster the limestone is completly natural & the silica gel is manufactured,but since they only sell limestone,they would say that.remember,this is not being put into the food. there will be parchment or plastic or somethiing in between the items & the dessicants.i think that should help anyone who wanted to know this(i did)

By tj on Tuesday, January 18, 2000 - 09:13 pm: Edit

i short reminder ,
never ever touch limestone with wet hands . you will burn yourself badly from the ultra fast
exothermic reaction that makes limestone fire up in intense heat when water comes in contact with it!
be carefull !

By momoreg on Wednesday, January 19, 2000 - 07:06 am: Edit

Thanks for the info. I always wondered where to buy it, and never knew there were so many things to look out for!

By Doucefrance (Doucefrance) on Wednesday, January 19, 2000 - 08:45 am: Edit

You don't have to replace silicagel when it turns pink. Just put it in a microwave bowl and microwave on high until it turns all blue again.
You can use it over and over, cheap and safe.
Helene

By Doucefrance (Doucefrance) on Wednesday, January 19, 2000 - 08:45 am: Edit

You don't have to replace silicagel when it turns pink. Just put it in a microwave bowl and microwave on high until it turns all blue again.
You can use it over and over, cheap and safe.
Helene

By W.DeBord on Wednesday, January 19, 2000 - 10:19 am: Edit

Pam thank-you for doing the homework! I find it interesting.