Candy Flavoring as a Source of Salicylate Poisoning

Abstract

Methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) in the form of candy flavoring was ingested by a 21-month-old male infant who subsequently developed vomiting, lethargy, and hyperpnea. A "swallow" of the solution resulted in a serum salicylate concentration of 8l mg/dL six hours after ingestion. The infant was treated with parenteral fluids and sodium bicarbonate and he recovered rapidly. Hazards associated with salicylate use in this form include lack of parental awareness of the substance's toxic potential, the attractiveness of the candy-like odor, and the availability of the liquid in non-child-resistant packaging containing potentially lethal quantities.

Degradation of methyl salicylate through Cl initiated atmospheric oxidation – a theoretical study

“…Due to its sweet smelling aroma (candy-like), it is attractive to small children and is a frequent cause of poisoning. [10][11][12][13] MeSA is a frequent constituent of insect-induced plant volatiles detected in the headspace of many insect-infested plants such as lima bean, 14 Arabidopsis, 15 tomato, 16 and soybean. 17 GLVs undergo chemical reactions with atmospheric oxidants, yielding compounds that contribute to the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOAs), which are harmful to human health and ecosystem.…”