Flower food, often included with cut flower bouquets, is designed to prolong the freshness of your blooms. But what happens if it’s accidentally ingested? Let’s explore the components of flower food and potential risks.
Cut flower food, commonly found in packets from brands like Floralife® or Chrysal, primarily consists of sugars. While these sugars nourish the flowers, they are not intended for human consumption. These products may also contain trace amounts of citric acid or bleach.
While ingesting small amounts of cut flower food is unlikely to cause severe health issues, it’s crucial to keep it out of reach of children and pets. Ingestion can lead to an unpleasant taste and potential gagging.
If a child has ingested flower food, remain calm. Most children will react negatively to the taste, possibly coughing or gagging. Immediately remove the packet from the child, wipe their mouth with a damp cloth, and offer water to rinse away the taste. Avoid inducing vomiting.
After addressing the immediate situation, contact the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. This service is available 24/7 for poisoning emergencies and inquiries. Medical professionals will assess the situation and provide guidance based on the amount ingested and individual circumstances. Remember, prompt communication with experts is key to ensuring the best possible outcome. Treatment recommendations are often determined by the amount ingested.
Disclaimer: Every case is unique. Contact a medical professional for personalized advice regarding your specific situation. The information provided here is for general knowledge and does not substitute professional medical advice.
