A Gold Coast toddler is in an induced coma after accidentally inhaling cake-decorating dust, including metallic “gold” powder used for decorating. Reports say the child was near his mother when he inhaled the product and became unresponsive, with accounts describing breathing difficulties. Multiple outlets state the dust forms a thick or paste-like substance in the lungs, which doctors treated by placing the boy in an induced coma. One report says the product contains metals including copper and zinc.
In updates on the boy’s condition, one outlet reports that the child is now breathing on his own, describing a recovery milestone following intensive care. Another report notes that the child was previously placed into a coma because the powder thickened in his lungs.
ABC Australia reports that the toddler’s mother is urging action, calling for similar cake-decorating products to be removed from shelves. The overall coverage focuses on the medical emergency, the suspected effect of the metallic dust in the airway, and the family’s call for product safety measures.
