I just emptied my brooder a few days ago after trying a cycle with my shredded office paper. It worked okay, but isn't as absorbent as pine shavings and didn't help with odor control. I was concerned about the ink, but decided to give it a try anyway. They may have eaten some although I never saw them, but I didn't and don't see any negative effects. I will say that they were very entertained by the paper. They would pick at colored pieces and carry them around and chase each other. I only kept it in for a few days, because the pine shavings are so much better at absorption (and they smell nice). I was thinking it would be a great, free product to use, but was slightly disappointed. I would use it temporarily if I was out of litter or need something quickly. Maybe I'm just spoiled by the pine shavings. I have also tried sand for a cycle, and it's not my favorite. I found it to be dusty/sandy with sand dust covering everything in the brooder, but maybe it's the sand I used since others really love it. I live in a dry/hot area of the country and my yard is pure red clay. I have enough sand and dirt flying around our town and covering everything (including my house, yard, and car) that I am interested in created a more woody environment around and in the coop and run. I am planning to use pine shavings or mulch or nuggets in the run and the shavings in the coop. I am going to find every piece of organic/dry material I can (leaves, etc.) and use it in the run. I love this adventure with chicks and trying out new things and seeing how they work for the chicks and for me.
