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Parents of small children, specifically those age three and under, are constantly on the lookout for common choking hazards. There has been a lot of effort put forth to educate parents on what items pose a risk to their children, however pediatricians are now targeting certain manufacturers to encourage changes which can prevent choking in small children.

An American favorite, hot dogs are a popular food in the United States. They are also a favorite food for kids, which is why pediatricians are concerned about the dangers they pose to small children. The American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) is approaching hot dog manufacturers with a request to change the design of hot dogs to reduce choking hazards. The very shape of a hot dog makes it difficult for children to eat in smaller bites which can lead to choking.

According the AAP, choking is one of the leading causes of death in children, particularly those three or under, who are prone to put everything and anything in their mouth. Food, coins and small pieces from toys lead to most choking incidents. Every year, over 10,000 kids choke on food, with 77 percent dieing from the incident. This should be a major concern for all everyone, parents, teachers, child care providers and manufacturers of the products most likely to result in choking incidents. Currently there are few strategies in place to warn consumers of choking hazards associated with food.

As a result the AAP is recommending the following changes:

  • Warning labels on food, similar to those currently place on toys that pose a choking risk.
  • A nationwide surveillance and reporting system for food-related incidents.
  • Designs for new food should minimize choking risks, as well as a redesign for foods such as hot dogs that currently pose a choking hazard.
  • Food products that pose a choking risk should be recalled.
  • Care givers of small children should be taught CPR and first aid for choking victims.

It only makes sense that additional steps be taken to better educate parents and care givers of the potential for choking associated with certain foods. Currently the responsibility of educating parents falls on the shoulders of pediatricians who can provide advise and guidance as to what food choices are safe.

The President of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Janet Riley, happens to agree that there should be more education in place regarding choking hazards from food, however she is unsure if warning labels on packages is the most effective route. Whether or not an American favorite will see a new design remains to be seen.