They seem innocent enough, and they’re probably served at just about every children’s birthday party around Australia every weekend – but experts are warning these two common treats pose a deadly threat to children under the age of five.
Kidsafe SA chief executive Holly Fitzgerald says marshmallows and popcorn are choking hazards for young children, with many parents unaware of just how dangerous they can be.
“Traditional-sized marshmallows are that perfect size to lodge inside a child’s oesophagus,” Ms Fitzgerald told 9 News.
Mouths of Mums has previously featured the sometimes deadly consequences of foods that children can easily choke on, including sausages and Easter eggs, as well as teething necklaces.
Former paramedic and owner of Tiny Hearts Education Nikki Jurcutz says marshmallows are particularly dangerous because of their consistency.
“The back blows and the chest thrusts that we instruct parents to do (if a child is choking) often won’t actually be able to clear the airwave for the marshmallows,” she explained.
Tiny Hearts Education has also previously featured frightening stories of children choking on popcorn.
“Popcorn is often overlooked because we look at popcorn as a healthy option for our little ones,” Ms Jurcutz told 9 News.
It’s prompted a call from Kidsafe SA for new guidelines around suitable snacks for young children.
“Twenty years ago I think was the last time there was the last time there was a really hard push or a campaign around the safe eating for the under-3’s or under 4’s,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
According to Raising Children whole nuts, seeds, chips, hot dogs, lollies and marshmallows shouldn’t be given to children until they’re four-years-old.
3:55 pm
10:34 am
8:13 am
9:26 pm
12:03 am
11:01 am
8:35 am
7:24 am
5:24 pm
8:28 am
6:13 am
8:39 pm
8:24 pm
7:40 pm
7:26 am
9:05 pm
7:08 pm
6:50 pm
3:54 pm
1:50 pm
To post a review/comment please join us or login so we can allocate your points.