Packing peanuts are a common sight in shipped packages, acting as a lightweight cushioning material to protect fragile contents. These loose-fill materials come in two distinct forms, which often look similar enough to cause confusion for consumers. While some newer varieties are technically non-toxic, no type of packing peanut is intended for human or animal consumption. Understanding the difference between the two main types is important for assessing the potential risks associated with accidental ingestion.
The Hazards of Traditional Polystyrene Peanuts
Traditional packing peanuts are made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, a plastic derived from petroleum products. This material, often incorrectly referred to as Styrofoam, is composed of a rigid, closed-cell structure that is approximately 98% air. Polystyrene is chemically inert and entirely indigestible, meaning it does not break down in stomach acid or get absorbed into the bloodstream. Since the material is not manufactured under food safety standards, it may contain trace elements, such as the styrene monomer. Any pieces swallowed will simply pass through the digestive tract, posing a significant risk of physical obstruction because the non-biodegradable plastic will not dissolve.
Understanding the Water-Soluble Alternatives
Water-soluble packing peanuts are an environmentally friendlier alternative, typically made from plant-based starches such as corn, wheat, or potato starch. These starches are heated and expanded to create a foam-like material that is both non-toxic and biodegradable. A defining characteristic is their ability to dissolve rapidly upon contact with water, saliva, or stomach acid. However, “non-toxic” does not equate to “food-safe,” as they are manufactured in industrial facilities without the strict hygienic conditions required for human food production. Furthermore, the manufacturing process often removes any nutritional value.
Primary Physical Risks of Accidental Ingestion
Regardless of the material, the primary danger of ingesting any packing peanut is the physical risk of choking or internal obstruction. Due to their size and light, airy structure, peanuts can easily become lodged in the throat, posing an immediate choking hazard, especially for small children or pets. If swallowed, polystyrene peanuts are particularly concerning because they do not dissolve and maintain their shape, creating a non-passing obstruction that may require surgical intervention. Even starch-based peanuts, while dissolving quickly, can still form a problematic blockage if a large volume is ingested rapidly.
The symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include severe cramping, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Other signs that a foreign body is causing a serious problem include abdominal swelling, loud digestive sounds, and the inability to pass gas or stool. These symptoms signal that the normal movement of the digestive tract has been compromised.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Immediate medical attention is required if a person, particularly a child, exhibits any signs of choking or potential obstruction after swallowing packing peanuts. If breathing is difficult, if there is persistent coughing, or if the individual is unable to swallow, call emergency services immediately. For any ingestion, the national Poison Control Center should be contacted to receive guidance on the specific material swallowed and the appropriate next steps. If ingestion is followed by symptoms like severe abdominal pain or repeated vomiting, professional medical intervention is necessary. Caregivers can minimize risk by storing loose-fill packaging materials securely and disposing of them promptly after unpacking.