The Hidden Dangers of a Popular Summer Treat
Frozen slush drinks, commonly known as slushies, are a favorite among children, particularly during the warmer months. Despite their popularity, excessive consumption of a specific ingredient in these beverages could result in serious health consequences.
Severe Health Risks Linked to Glycerol in Slushies
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has recently alerted that children under the age of seven should avoid consuming slushies containing glycerol. Glycerol, a sugar alcohol, is often used instead of sugar in many slushie recipes to keep the mixture from freezing completely. This substitution caters to the growing consumer preference for lower-sugar alternatives.
Parents and guardians are warned that high levels of glycerol intake can lead to shock, critically low blood sugar levels, and unconsciousness. The danger is particularly high if several slushies are consumed in a short period.
Updated Guidance Prior to Summer Season
With the approach of summer vacation, a period when slushie consumption spikes, the FSA has revised its guidance. Over the last three years, there have been nine confirmed hospitalizations across the UK linked to these drinks, with an additional seven cases suggested in various reports. According to the FSA, even a single 350ml serving of a slushie with 50,000mg/L of glycerol could be dangerous for children who weigh less than average for their age.
Professor Robin May, the FSA’s chief scientific adviser, emphasized that while these drinks might seem innocuous and typically only cause mild side effects, they can pose significant health risks to young children, especially when consumed in large quantities over a short duration.
Shift in Regulatory Advice
This new guidance marks a significant change from the FSA’s earlier recommendations, which previously stated that slushies containing glycerol were only unsuitable for children under four. The earlier advice also discouraged offering free refills to children under ten, a recommendation that remains in effect.
The FSA Board approved the new age restriction in a meeting on June 18, following a more cautious risk assessment that considered children with below-average body weight. Despite previous guidelines, incidents involving glycerol poisoning in younger children have continued, particularly in cases where voluntary labeling was not followed or was overlooked.
Preventive Measures and Parental Guidance
Given the updated guidelines, the FSA is urging retailers not to provide free refills to children under ten and to ensure clear warning signs are displayed at points of sale. Parents and caregivers are advised to verify whether slushies contain glycerol before purchasing and to pay attention to product labels or signs.
If a child exhibits symptoms like headaches, nausea, or vomiting after consuming a slushie, caregivers should immediately provide sugary foods or drinks and seek medical advice by calling 111. In cases where a child appears drowsy or disoriented, emergency services should be contacted without delay.
This guidance also extends to ready-to-drink slushie products in pouches and home kits that include glycerol concentrates.
FSA Chair Professor Susan Jebb stated, “During warm weather, there’s a higher likelihood of children consuming slushies containing glycerol, so it’s crucial that parents and carers are aware of the associated risks. We are collaborating with parent groups and charities across the UK to disseminate this updated guidance effectively. We also expect the industry to cooperate by sharing data on glycerol content in their products, which will aid in our future regulatory efforts. In the meantime, limiting cup sizes and discontinuing free refill promotions for children under ten are immediate steps that retailers can implement to help safeguard children.”
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Naomi is a clean beauty expert passionate about science-driven skincare and natural remedies. She demystifies ingredients and shares routines that empower readers to glow — naturally.