Which food presents a highest risk for asphyxiation in toddlers during lunchtime?

The highest risk for asphyxiation in toddlers during lunchtime stems from large pieces of raw vegetables. When toddlers eat, they might not chew thoroughly, and large chunks of firm food can easily get lodged in their throats. Raw vegetables, being crunchy and firm, can pose a significant choking hazard, especially if they are not cut into appropriate sizes for young children.

In contrast, small pieces of cooked meat, soft fruits like bananas, and cheese cubes are generally easier for toddlers to chew and swallow. Cooked meat can be made tender for easier consumption, bananas are naturally soft and have a mushy texture, and cheese cubes can be manageable when appropriately sized. Therefore, while all foods require supervision, large pieces of raw vegetables are particularly problematic due to their texture and size when not prepared properly for toddlers.