Sola/Cassava Root - Is it safe?

[jal]

I've just found a really good on-line pet shop (www.minipetz.co.uk) and bought a few things from them including some Sola Sticks (also known as Cassava). Now I'm wondering if they're okay as tapioca is extracted from the root which is not safe for hamsters and presumably, gerbils. Has anyone else given their gerbils Sola root sticks to chew? www.minipetz.co.uk/ourshop/prod_6464819-Sola-Sticks.html

Edit: - Just realised this appears to be the wood not the root. I got confused as, whilst researching this stuff I found something similar on another website, ratrations.co.uk/cassava-root-stick---various-colours?search=cassava

[betty]

I have never researched this myself - but I know that there are always issues with these type of root crops that always seem to offer more digestibility and nutrients when cooked.

After a quick look seems that the raw tubers are deemed unsafe for humans to eat - but I haven't ever heard that soaked/cooked tabioca is a problem. It is difficult to research these things as rats and mice can eat virtually anything (so a lot of 'can rodents eat X' are founded on them, and there isn't always specific info out there on gerbils.

Hmm.

[jal]

I've just received the Sola sticks and they feel just like polystyrene! Very strange material. I won't risk giving them to the gerbils. I thought of emailing them but doubt they would reassure me and as they were very cheap it's not worth trying to get a refund. They may be more for rats and mice.

[betty]

Weird?

Yeah, I always think that - if I'm not sure - I don't give it to them?