Short answerDo not put dry ice in a cup someone will drink from. The Illinois Poison Center says swallowing it can cause internal burns, and the Compressed Gas Association warns it can expand rapidly if swallowed and cause serious injury or death.
Why it is dangerous to swallow
- It is −109.3°F (−78.5°C) and can freeze tissue on contact (CGA).
- Swallowed, it can cause internal burns (Illinois Poison Center).
- It turns rapidly into gas. The CGA says that if swallowed, it will rapidly expand and can cause serious injury or death.
Punch bowls and “bubbling cauldrons”
The Illinois Poison Center notes dry ice is often added to Halloween punch bowls for a bubbling cauldron effect, and advises: do not place any directly in drinking cups. Some sellers promote dry ice for drinks; follow the poison center’s advice and keep pieces out of anything that gets poured into a cup.
Wear gloves to handle it, and use it only where there is good airflow. The poison center says carbon dioxide buildup can cause headaches, dizziness and vomiting.
If someone swallows dry ice
- Call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 right away (free and confidential).
- Call 911 if they are unconscious or having trouble breathing.
Related guides
Sources (checked October 29, 2026)
- Illinois Poison Center: Halloween Safety (Dry Ice)
- Compressed Gas Association: Dry Ice Safety (SP-15)
- Cayman Dry Ice (Ann Arbor, MI): Dry Ice Pellets
General guidance, not professional safety advice. Follow your supplier’s and carrier’s instructions.