The Dangers of Eating Mochi
How rice cakes in Japan can be lethal
We all love Mochi (餅, もち)— the soft Japanese rice cake enjoyed across the world in several varieties (but not to be confused with ice cream mochi — we’re talking about the traditional stuff!).
The stretchiness of Mochi is thought to symbolize longevity.
But did you know Mochi causes several choking-related deaths in Japan every year?
While Mochi is consumed year round, there are special Mochi prepared during the New Year period (Ozomi), Spring (Sakuramochi), Children’s Day (Kashiwamochi and Chimaki) and Girl’s Day (Hishimochi).
In particular, it is the New Year period which is a cause for concern.
Due to the large number of people consuming Mochi simultaneously across the country during this time, there are several calls to health services complaining of choking.
According to this article, in January 2022, the Tokyo Fire Department recorded 19 hospital admissions, 4 of which ended in death.
Choking tends to impact young children and the elderly who struggle to chew and swallow the glutinous treat.
As a result, each year Japanese authorities provide annual warnings which include (broadly speaking), the following advisories:
- Make sure your throat is salivated prior to eating
- Cut the Mochi into small pieces
- Consciously chew thoroughly and swallow carefully
- Stay with children and elderly people when they are consuming Mochi
As 2022 draws to a close, please remember to consume Mochi safely.
