Energizer Releases Titanium Alloy Coin Batteries

Energizer launched a new line of Ultimate Child Shield 20 mm coin lithium batteries on May 6, 2026. The batteries are available in sizes 2032, 2025, and 2016 and are made from a proprietary titanium alloy material instead of stainless steel. The company claims the new batteries eliminate the risk of ingestion burns if swallowed.

The batteries replace Energizer's 3in1 Child Shield batteries that were released in 2025 and are now being discontinued. Energizer has been working on the technology for over a decade. Independent testing and verification support the claims, though ABC News has not verified them.

The batteries come in child-resistant packaging as mandated by law and include a nontoxic food dye that turns blue when in contact with saliva along with a bitter-tasting coating to deter swallowing. The dye works with cats and dogs too. The batteries are commonly used in remotes, wearables, trackers such as Apple’s AirTags, electronic devices, jewelry, toys and watches.

They are available where specialty batteries are sold. , including children, swallow button or coin-sized batteries annually, according to the National Capital Poison Center. Between 3,000 to 8,000 people around the world suffer from coin battery-related injury complications each year, and these complications can be deadly.

If a swallowed battery gets stuck in the esophagus, it can generate an electrical current resulting in alkaline tissue burns that can cause life-threatening injuries in just a few hours. Reese Hamsmith, who was 18 months old, died following a button battery ingestion six years ago. Trista Hamsmith is working with Energizer to promote the new battery but is not a paid spokesperson.