Avoiding Holiday Hazards: Staying Safe While Enjoying Chanukah Treats

In recent years, there have been several tragic incidents involving people choking on sufganiyot, some even resulting in fatalities. Magen David Adom (MDA) warns that this seemingly innocent holiday treat can pose risks, especially for infants, young children, the elderly, and individuals with swallowing difficulties. Their statement reads: "The dough of the sufganiyah can be dangerous. It is recommended to cut it into small pieces and supervise during eating."

Just last Thursday, a 64-year-old man choked on a sufganiyah and was rushed in critical condition to Assaf Harofeh Medical Center. MDA teams performed resuscitation and removed the dough from his throat. He was brought in critical but stable condition, although he remained sedated and on a ventilator.

This incident is one of several in recent years, including the unfortunate death of a 67-year-old man from Bnei Brak last year who choked on a sufganiyah. Despite the resuscitation attempts by MDA teams, his death was pronounced at the scene.

Dr. Nasrin Alatamin, a pediatric specialist at Maccabi Healthcare Services, explained to Mako that "like any food, if sufganiyot are not chewed thoroughly, they can cause choking, especially among children and the elderly. Moreover, be mindful of allergies and sensitivities to gluten or ingredients in the jelly, which can trigger severe allergic reactions requiring immediate medical attention."

MDA recommends cutting the sufganiyah into small pieces and ensuring supervision during eating. If choking occurs, encourage the affected person to cough if they can, while simultaneously summoning medical assistance. If the person cannot speak, cough, or breathe, call emergency services and follow their instructions.