Energizer launches ‘Ultimate Child Shield’ coin batteries it says prevent ingestion burns

Energizer has launched a new line of lithium coin batteries under its Ultimate Child Shield branding, saying the cells are designed to prevent the alkaline tissue burns that can occur if a battery is swallowed and becomes lodged in the esophagus.

The batteries are available in 2032, 2025, and 2016 sizes, which are commonly used in small electronics including remote controls, wearables, and trackers. Energizer said the batteries became available on May 6, 2026.

Why swallowed coin batteries can be dangerous

Most swallowed coin batteries pass through the digestive system without incident. The biggest risk arises when a battery becomes stuck in the esophagus: when it contacts saliva, it can generate an electrical current that triggers chemical reactions and alkaline tissue burns that can become life-threatening within hours.

What Energizer is (and isn’t) disclosing

Energizer has not disclosed the specific internal technical change it says prevents a swallowed battery from generating that current. The company says, however, that the risk of serious or life-threatening ingestion burns has been eliminated.

Beyond the internal safety feature, Energizer says the Ultimate Child Shield batteries include several external deterrents: child-resistant packaging; a bitterant coating intended to discourage ingestion; and a food-grade dye that turns the mouth blue when it comes into contact with saliva as a possible indicator that a battery may have been swallowed.

Energizer still advises seeking immediate medical attention in all suspected cases of battery ingestion.