The use of reusable utensils in everyday life, associated with more sustainable practices, is generating concern after an incident publicized on social media drew attention to a little-discussed risk. At issue is the possibility of accidental ingestion of sharp fragments, with potential consequences for health, in an object present in homes, cafes and restaurants.
According to Marketeer, a website specializing in marketing, advertising and communications, the alert came after a video published on TikTok by Breezie O’Brien, a digital content creator, who reported having accidentally ingested a fragment of her own glass straw.
The influencer explained that she only realized the situation when she felt something solid sliding down her throat and, when observing the utensil, she noticed the absence of a small splinter. Shortly afterwards, she identified blood in her mouth, which led her to seek hospital assistance.
The timing of the incident
At the hospital, the tests carried out indicated that the fragment had already been expelled naturally and no surgical intervention was necessary. Still, doctors recommended close surveillance during the following days, due to the risk of internal bleeding associated with cuts in the digestive tract.
A little discussed physical risk
The report quickly went viral and generated a wave of reactions on social media. Many users admitted to considering abandoning this type of utensils, while others shared similar experiences or expressed surprise at a risk that they had not considered until then.
Although serious cases are rare, the danger exists whenever the straw has cracks or chips, especially when these go unnoticed by the naked eye.
Fragility and wear
The material in question is generally considered safe from a chemical point of view, not releasing harmful substances into drinks. The problem lies in its fragility.
With repeated use, accidental drops or shocks during washing, microcracks can form that weaken the structure and facilitate the detachment of small sharp fragments.
Accident data
Data released by health entities points to around a thousand annual visits to emergency services in the United States related to accidents involving straws made of various materials.
Although most incidents are mild, glass and metal models are associated with potentially more serious injuries when compared to more flexible alternatives, such as silicone or paper.
Care to be taken in daily use
Prevention mainly involves simple but consistent care. Regular inspection before each use, immediate replacement of straws showing signs of wear and the choice of safer materials in sensitive contexts, such as use by children, are some of the most frequently mentioned measures.
According to , the case exposed a gap in the perception of risk associated with reusable products promoted for their ecological aspect. The episode reminds us that sustainable choices also require attention to safety and maintenance, especially when they involve fragile materials used in direct contact with the mouth.
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