Energizer Replaces 2025 Child Shield Coin Batteries with New Titanium-Alloy Version

Energizer launched its Ultimate Child Shield 20 mm coin lithium batteries on May 7, 2026. The new batteries are available in sizes 2032, 2025 and 2016 and replace the company's 3in1 Child Shield batteries released in 2025, which Energizer is discontinuing. The batteries are made from a proprietary titanium alloy material instead of stainless steel.

Energizer says the change prevents the chemical reaction that causes burning of the digestive tract when such batteries are swallowed. The company stated that independent testing and verification back up their claims. Energizer has been working on the technology behind the new battery for over a decade.

The new batteries come in child-resistant packaging as mandated by law. They also feature a nontoxic food dye that turns blue when a battery comes into contact with saliva and a bitter-tasting coating that may help deter swallowing. , including children, who swallow button or coin-sized batteries, 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. Reese Hamsmith died at 18 months old following a button battery ingestion six years ago. Her mother, Trista Hamsmith, is working with Energizer to promote the new battery but is not a paid spokesperson.

"We're always gonna have batteries. That's just life," Hamsmith told ABC News. " Dr. " She added that the only way to fully prevent battery injuries and deaths is to keep batteries out of the hands of children.

"What is most paramount really is preventing accidental ingestions. [A battery] is not a safe product for a child to ingest," Cobern said. " If a button battery ingestion is suspected, it should be treated as an emergency and the child should be seen by a medical provider immediately.

Children over the age of one can be given honey if they are able to swallow to help coat the esophagus, but this should not delay seeking care. The National Battery Ingestion Hotline number is 1-800-498-8666. The poison control number is 1-800-222-1222.

@ABC reported these details from interviews with the company, Trista Hamsmith and Dr. Jade Cobern.