Food Choking Hazard Guide
Find out which food choking hazards to look out for by age!
Posted on
18 October 2015
Posted by
ewfood
More often than not, the safety of children are overlooked when we assume that they are already big enough to chew on the food we offer our children. However, this should not be the case because no matter how big they seem to be and how capable they are of handling their food, kids can still choke on a number of food items. Adding variety to his plate is good but one must also be careful by considering the choking hazards some food items may present.
We have a list of choking hazards for children listed by age.
12 to 24 Months
Watch out for: Bite-sized veggies like baby carrots and any vegetable that is cut larger than a pea can lodge in your child’s throat, thereby cutting his breathing completely. Make sure to cut into small pieces or dice fruits and vegetables that is no bigger than a pea to ensure that any hazard will be avoided. Cooking them thoroughly will also soften the bits of vegetables up and this will help avoid choking.
Small hard foods: Hard foods like candies, cough drops, lollipops that are easily loosened, nuts and other small hard food items can be stuck in a child’s throat. Avoid this hazard at all cost.
24 to 36 Months
Watch out for: One must not underestimate children who are of 24-36 months of age even if they seem more capable now. Choking can happen to anyone and the risk is higher in young children. Watch out for the choking hazards as mentioned above. As much as possible, do not allow a child to eat while walking, in a moving vehicle, or eat while watching television because the distraction might spell trouble.
3 to 5 Years
Watch out for: Small food items such as grapes and other bite-sized food pieces. Slice them up or cut them to tiny pieces that will be safe for them. Bite-sized hotdogs can also be a choking hazard, slice these pieces as well. Avoid popcorn, hard candies, assorted nuts and chewing gum. Discourage children to eat while moving and while distracted.
Remember, it is better to be extra careful. When in doubt, slice your child's food and make sure there will be no possibility of choking.
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