What does the term "human consumption" refer to?

The term "human consumption" specifically refers to the act of injecting, inhaling, or ingesting substances that can be ingested or absorbed into the body. This definition encompasses a wide range of substances, including legal and illegal drugs, alcohol, and other materials that are consumed for various effects on the body.

In contrast, applying substances for cosmetic purposes generally involves topical use and does not constitute consumption in the traditional sense. Consuming food safely relates to dietary practices but doesn't encompass the broader implications of substance use defined by the term. Using substances for academic research typically involves controlled environments and does not imply any form of direct consumption by humans. Thus, the definition of "human consumption" is most accurately captured by the act of taking substances into the body through various means.