Choking is a leading cause of injury and death among children, especially children 3 years of age or younger. Food, toys and coins account for most of the choking-related events in young children, who put objects in their mouths as they explore new environments. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) policy statement, “Prevention of Choking Among Children,” published in the March issue of Pediatrics , contains recommendations for government agencies, manufacturers, parents, teachers, child care workers and health care professionals to help prevent choking among children. Because the size, shape and consistency of certain toys and food increase the possibility of being a choking hazard, and because many of the prevention strategies currently in place to prevent choking on toys have not yet been implemented to prevent choking on food, the AAP recommends:
•Warning labels on foods that pose a high choking risk.
•A recall of food products that pose a significant choking hazard.
•The establishment of a nationwide food-related choking-incident surveillance and reporting system.
•Food manufacturers should design new food and redesign existing food to minimize choking risk.
•CPR and choking first aid should be taught to parents, teachers and child care providers.
Pediatricians should continue to provide guidance to parents on safe and appropriate food and toy choices, as recommended by the AAP.

The National Confectioners Association has responded to the policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics in which it says: “The confectionery industry feels very strongly about protecting the health and well-being of children and strives to make products safe for everyone. “Any type of food can present a choking hazard. Because candy is a popular food among children, parents should supervise its consumption, especially among very young children… For example, children should not run or play while eating.”