Ink is everywhere — from handwritten notes and legal contracts to fine art and tattoo parlours. But behind this everyday essential lies a world of fascinating facts and unexpected uses. Here are five ink-related truths that might just surprise you.
1. Soy Ink Might Not Be as Green as It Seems
Soy-based ink was introduced in the 1970s as an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based inks, especially for newspaper printing. It’s often praised for being biodegradable and easier to remove during paper recycling. However, recent research suggests that soy ink may not be as green as it appears.
When soy oil oxidizes — especially after drying — it can actually make recycling more difficult. This means that while soy ink starts off with good intentions, its long-term sustainability remains a topic of debate. As always, “green” doesn’t always mean perfect.
2. Ink Dates Back to the Bronze Age
Ink has been used by civilizations for thousands of years — but pinpointing its origin is tricky. Some historians believe that the Chinese philosopher Tien-Lcheu invented black ink as early as 2697 BC. Others suggest it was independently developed during the Bronze Age in different regions of the world.
What we do know is that early inks were often made from natural materials like soot, charcoal, plant dyes, and even insect shells. Ink, in short, is one of humanity’s oldest tools for communication.
💡 Want more historical insights? Check out our post: The History of Ink and The History of writing instruments
3. Even “Permanent” Ink Isn’t Always Permanent
Medieval scribes relied on iron gall ink — a mixture of tannic acid (from oak galls), iron salts, and gum arabic — to document everything from royal decrees to symphonies. Even Leonardo da Vinci and Johann Sebastian Bach used it in their masterpieces.
Fast forward to today: despite its name, even permanent ink can be removed. Products like Amodex — a lanolin-based, eco-friendly cream — can effectively remove ink stains from skin, fabric, and paper without causing damage.
✍️ Bonus Tip: Need to erase ink without smudging? Learn how to erase ink cleanly from paper.
4. Squid Ink Might Help Fight Cancer
You might have tried squid ink in a dramatic black pasta dish — but it’s more than a culinary novelty. Squid ink contains powerful antioxidants and compounds that may offer genuine health benefits.
Recent studies suggest that squid ink can:
- Boost immune function
- Protect white blood cell production
- Inhibit blood vessel growth in tumours
Although it’s still early days, researchers are exploring how cephalopod ink could one day play a role in cancer treatment.
5. Drinking Ink Won’t Kill You (But Please Don’t Try It)
Can you get ink poisoning from a pen? Technically, it’s possible — but incredibly unlikely. Most modern inks are non-toxic in small amounts. Accidentally getting ink on your hands or even in your mouth is rarely dangerous.
That said, drinking a large quantity of ink (which would take real effort) could lead to symptoms like headaches, nausea, or skin irritation — usually from the solvents or pigments used in certain industrial inks.
🩺 Worried about ink safety? Read our full post: Can You Get Ink Poisoning from a Pen?
✒️ Curious about the darker side of ink? Discover Where the Term “Poison Pen” Came From
Final Thoughts
Ink has come a long way from its ancient origins. Whether it’s helping record history, express creativity, or possibly even fight disease, this humble liquid continues to play an essential role in our lives.
Got an ink story or fun fact of your own? Drop it in the comments below!