Quick Answer
Yes, there are some types of Play-Doh that are made to be edible and safe to eat. Play-Doh’s regular modeling compound is non-toxic but not intended to be eaten. However, Hasbro does make edible Play-Doh and Play-Doh Plus compounds that are meant to be consumed.
Overview of Play-Doh
Play-Doh is a modeling compound made by Hasbro that is popular as a children’s toy. It is available in many bright colors and is known for its soft, pliable texture that holds its shape when molded by hand.
The original Play-Doh compound was invented in the 1930s by Joseph McVicker as a wallpaper cleaner. However, his sister-in-law Kay Zufall soon realized the clay-like material would make an excellent children’s toy. In 1956, Play-Doh was first sold as a wallpaper cleaner kit called Rainbow Crafts, but it quickly became clear that the putty-like substance was more fun as a modeling compound. By 1957, McVicker and Zufall had removed the wallpaper cleaner from the kits and marketed Play-Doh solely as a toy.
Over the years since its launch, Play-Doh has become one of the most iconic and popular children’s toys in the world. Generations of kids have enjoyed creating Play-Doh sculptures, creatures, foods, and more.
Regular Play-Doh Compound
The standard Play-Doh that most people are familiar with is a modeling compound made from water, salt, borax, and mineral oils. It is smooth, pliable, doesn’t dry out quickly, and can be molded into detailed shapes.
Hasbro states that regular Play-Doh compound is non-toxic and safe for children to handle. However, it is not intended to be eaten. The compound is primarily made of inert, non-nutritive ingredients. Eating regular modeling Play-Doh is not hazardous, but it is not formulated to be a food product. It is not flavored and provides no nutritional value.
Play-Doh Plus
In recent years, Hasbro has introduced some Play-Doh products that are meant to be consumed. Play-Doh Plus is an edible modeling compound that is safe to eat.
Play-Doh Plus is made from edible ingredients like wheat flour, corn starch, colorings, and flavorings. It is a soft, moist dough that retains its shape when molded. Play-Doh Plus comes in colorful cans with sweet fruity scents and flavors like cherry, orange, and strawberry.
The Play-Doh Plus cans have markings indicating the compound is edible. It can be used to mold pretend foods or snack on while playing. When consumed in reasonable quantities, Play-Doh Plus is non-toxic and digestible.
Play-Doh Kitchen Creations
Play-Doh Kitchen Creations is another edible Play-Doh product meant to look like food. It is molded into the shapes of desserts, fruits, vegetables, and more. Kitchen Creations are made from mainly the same edible wheat flour mixture as Play-Doh Plus.
Playsets come with molds and tools to create realistic-looking fake foods out of the modeling compound. Play-Doh Kitchen Creations are vibrantly colored and decorated to resemble things like cupcakes, popsicles, and waffles. Children can pretend to cook and eat their Play-Doh creations.
Safety of Eating Play-Doh
Eating regular modeling Play-Doh is not recommended, but swallowing small accidental amounts is not hazardous. Play-Doh was formulated to be a safe, non-toxic children’s toy. Its primary ingredients of water, salt, and flour make it minimally toxic if ingested.
However, in rare cases, eating excessive amounts of Play-Doh could potentially cause:
- Mild intestinal blockage or vomiting
- Choking if swallowed in large pieces
- Allergic reaction in those with wheat/gluten sensitivity (Play-Doh contains wheat flour)
Parents are advised to supervise children using Play-Doh and teach them it is a modeling compound, not food. Call Poison Control if a large quantity is consumed.
Play-Doh Plus and Kitchen Creations are considered non-hazardous when eaten in normal amounts. They are designed to be edible. Still, excessive consumption could potentially cause:
- Choking on pieces if improperly chewed
- Allergic reaction in those with wheat/gluten sensitivity
- Upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation from large amounts
As with any food product, moderation is advised. Excessive eating of Play-Doh Plus or Kitchen Creations may cause stomach upset or bowel issues. Keep consumption to reasonable serving sizes.
Nutritional Content of Edible Play-Doh
Since Play-Doh Plus and Kitchen Creations are made with wheat flour, corn starch, and other food substances, they do provide some basic nutrition when consumed:
Typical Nutritional Values per Serving of Edible Play-Doh:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 115-130 |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 1g or less |
| Vitamin C | 0% DV |
| Iron | 4-10% DV |
| Calcium | 0% DV |
*Percent Daily Values (DV) based on a 2,000 calorie diet for adults and children 4 years and older.
As the table shows, a standard serving of edible Play-Doh provides carbohydrates and a small amount of plant-based protein and iron. However, it lacks other vitamins and minerals and is not a nutritionally complete food.
Play-Doh Plus and Kitchen Creations supply some calories and nutrition, but they are designed as modeling compounds, not daily food substitutes. They should be consumed in moderation for occasional pretend play, not as meal replacements. A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy is still essential for a child’s nutrition.
Choking Hazards
Caregivers should be aware of potential choking hazards when using Play-Doh with small children:
- Ensure pieces are large enough not to pose a choking risk. Do not give children under 3 years pieces smaller than 1/2 inch.
- Monitor children during use to make sure Play-Doh is not broken into hazardous bits or stuffed into the mouth.
- Remind kids not to eat regular modeling Play-Doh.
- Teach children to slowly chew edible Play-Doh a few times before swallowing.
Choking can occur if large pieces of Play-Doh get caught in the windpipe. Supervising play time and limiting access to small bits reduces this risk. Proper chewing of edible Play-Doh before swallowing is also advised.
If a child starts choking on Play-Doh, immediately perform first aid:
- Check if they can cough, breathe, or make sounds. If not, call 911/112 and start CPR.
- If coughing, encourage continued coughing while patting their back gently to dislodge object.
- Do not reach into the child’s mouth or perform the Heimlich maneuver, as this may push object further into airway.
Seek emergency medical help if choking persists for more than a minute or the child cannot breathe. Prompt first aid can save lives.
Allergies and Sensitivities
Some individuals may have allergic reactions or sensitivities to ingredients in Play-Doh, especially wheat flour:
- Those with wheat/gluten allergies or celiac disease should avoid consuming Play-Doh Plus and Kitchen Creations as they contain wheat flour.
- Allergic reactions can include wheezing, swelling, rash, vomiting, or anaphylaxis.
- Children with food allergies should only use regular Play-Doh or other wheat-free modeling clays.
- Immediately call emergency services if a severe reaction occurs.
Parents of children with known food allergies need to check ingredients carefully and monitor play. Wheat-free modeling clay is a safer alternative. Seek medical help right away for serious allergic responses.
Alternatives to Play-Doh
There are a variety of modeling clay products that provide alternatives to Play-Doh:
Wheat-Free Modeling Clay
For children with wheat/gluten allergies, gluten-free modeling clay is the safest option. Brands like Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty and Ultrakut are wheat-free.
Natural Clay
Air-dry clay made from natural ingredients like clay powder, salt, and water can be used to mold sculptures. Natural clay is non-toxic when dry but should not be consumed in large quantities. Brands include Crayola Air Dry Clay and ACTIVA Air-Dry Clay.
Kinetic Sand
Kinetic sand is made of sand coated in silicone oil, allowing it to retain its shape when molded. It provides sensory stimulation. Kinetic sand should not be ingested.
Moon Dough
Moon dough is a moldable, doughy material made from powder mixed with water. It retains shape like clay but dries to a powder. Moon dough is wheat-free and non-toxic.
Therapy Putty
Therapy putty is designed to help strengthen hands and fingers. It offers sensory input for fidgeting hands. Therapy putty is non-toxic if ingested. Brands include Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty and Duck Therapy Putty.
Homemade Edible Play-Doh Recipes
Making homemade edible Play-Doh is a fun cooking activity for kids. Here are some easy edible dough recipes:
2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Play-Doh
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered milk
Instructions:
- Combine peanut butter and powdered milk in a bowl
- Microwave 30 seconds to soften if needed
- Mix and knead until smooth dough forms
- Allow to cool slightly before playing
3-Ingredient Cooked Play-Doh
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Whisk flour and water in saucepan over medium heat
- Stir continuously until dough forms into a ball
- Remove from heat and mix in oil
- Knead dough until smooth
- Cool before playing
No Cook Play-Doh
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup salt
- 2 tsp cream of tartar
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Food coloring
Instructions:
- Whisk dry ingredients in bowl
- Mix in water and oil
- Divide dough and knead in food coloring
- Store tightly covered when not in use
Have fun making your own edible Play-Doh creations! Refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Conclusion
While regular modeling Play-Doh should not be eaten, edible versions like Play-Doh Plus and Kitchen Creations are designed to be safe for consumption. When used properly and in moderation, these wheat flour-based compounds can provide sensory stimulation and imaginative fun. Supervise children during use, be aware of choking hazards, and avoid with food allergies. With some easy safety precautions, edible Play-Doh can be an engaging activity for kids.
