Children under a certain age have been advised to avoid the brightly coloured drink at all costs due to health concerns
Parents are being urged to be aware of a popular summer drink that could have potential health risks for children. Experts have warned that certain kids should steer clear of the brightly coloured drinks altogether after some alarming cases of kids becoming unwell.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has advised that children under four should not consume a slush drink and those under 11 should limit themselves to just one. Numerous parents have reported their children falling ill shortly after consuming these seemingly harmless beverages.
Despite their appealing, sweet taste and vibrant colours, recent studies have highlighted potential health hazards associated with these drinks. A study published in the British Medical Journal revealed that 21 children required A&E treatment after becoming acutely unwell within an hour of consuming these drinks, primarily between 2018 and 2024.
Children may crave these refreshing iced drinks more during the hot summer months. However, consuming too much too quickly can lead to a worrying condition, reports the Liverpool Echo.
This reminder follows an update from Professor Susan Jebb, the chair of FSA, who said: “In the warm weather, children may be more likely to consume slush ice drinks containing glycerol, so it’s important that parents and carers are aware of the risks.
“As a precaution, the FSA is recommending that children under seven do not consume slush ice drinks containing glycerol. With our counterparts in Scotland, we will be talking to parent groups and charities to provide updated guidance that is useful and applicable across the UK.
“We expect industry to share data on the quantity of glycerol in their products to inform our future work. Meanwhile, there are immediate actions they can take to help protect children and reduce the risk from these products. For example, retailers should limit cup sizes and should not offer free refill promotions to children under 10.”
What is glycerol, and why can it be harmful to children?
Glycerol, also known as E422 on ingredient lists, is a crucial component in the production of slush ice drinks. It helps maintain the drink’s slush-like consistency by preventing the liquid from freezing solid.
The FSA has clamped down on the sale of slush ice drinks containing glycerol and issued guidelines for businesses. It insists that brand owners must ensure their customers are informed about the risks of glycerol in these icy treats.
The guide reads: “Brand owners will formulate products to contain glycerol at the minimum quantity technically necessary to achieve the required ‘slush’ drink effect. Brand owners will advise their customers that sales of slush ice drinks containing glycerol should be accompanied by a written warning visible at the point of sale.”
As an example, the FSA suggested: “Product contains glycerol. Not recommended for children 4 years of age and under.” Businesses were also advised against the practice of offering free refills in places where kids under 10 might drink these slushes.
Several reports have shown that kids are falling prey to a worrying condition known as glycerol intoxication. Although glycerol is usually safe, it can affect young children significantly if they have too much too quickly.
An FSA spokesperson warned: “While the symptoms of glycerol intoxication are usually mild, it is important that parents are aware of the risks, particularly at high levels of consumption. It is likely that there is under-reporting of glycerol intoxication, as parents may attribute nausea and headaches to other factors.”
What should I do if my child is showing signs of glycerol intoxication?
If your child has consumed a large amount of glycerol and is experiencing symptoms like decreased consciousness or hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), seek immediate medical attention. You should also inform the medical professionals that your child consumed a slush ice drink containing glycerol.
Symptoms can include:
- headaches
- nausea
- vomiting
- low blood sugar
- loss of consciousness or shock, in severe cases
Always keep an eye on kids when they’re enjoying slushy drinks, and be mindful of the possible risks. If your child is having difficulty breathing, is unconscious, or has turned blue, call emergency services (999 in the UK) or rush them to the nearest hospital right away.
For less serious symptoms (like headache or nausea), reach out to 111 or your local emergency number for guidance. According to the NHS, don’t give your child anything to eat or drink unless a medical professional tells you to. If you suspect your child has consumed a large quantity of a slush ice drink or any product with glycerol, make sure to inform the medical staff.