There are certain everyday substances that can be toxic to animals and humans depending on the amount of exposure. Water for example can become toxic in the body if there is too much. There are also other chemicals, pharmaceuticals, toxins, pathogens and animal venoms that can be toxic to humans in very small doses. This measurement of toxicity is known as the median lethal dose. Keep in mind however the LD50, as it is also known as, is not the lethal dose for all subjects. Some may be killed by much less, while others survive doses far higher than the LD50. This chart shows the median lethal dose of 55 different substances. You might be surprised to see petrol so 'high' on the list meaning they have a high LD50 at 14,063 mg/kg. Vitamin C has a lower LD50 than petrol, making it more toxic at lower doses. The highest toxin on the list causes botulism and is known as Botulinum Toxin. It has a LD50 score of 1 ng/kg.
Infographic by: ceufast
