At least 3 Japanese die after choking on New Year's rice cakes

At least three Japanese died and 15 were hospitalized choking on sticky rice cakes traditionally eaten during the New Year's holidays, police and fire department officials said.

Tokyo Fire Department official Hiroyuki Komatsu said a 76-year-old man in Tokyo and a 68-year-old man in Fuchu city in western greater Tokyo choked to death on Tuesday eating the chewy fare.

Another 14 people between the ages of 65 and 91 were taken to local hospitals on Monday and Tuesday, including seven who were unconscious and in serious condition, he added.

Every year, some Japanese die from choking on mochi, which is made of highly compressed sticky rice, and typically grilled and wrapped in dried seaweed, or served in a soup called ``ozoni.''

Officials issue annual warnings about the risks of eating mochi, urging people to take small bites, chew well and drink plenty of liquids.