The common drink can cause a rapid, frightening, reaction and you need to take action fast
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is warning parents not to give children under seven slush ice drinks or ‘slushies’ containing glycerol. The FSA is also saying that children aged between seven and 10 should have no more than one 350ml ‘slushie’ a day – roughly the size of a fizzy drink can.
Retailers have been asked not to give refills to children aged under 10. The manufacturers of slush ice drink concentrates have also been reminded to use only the minimum amount of glycerol necessary to achieve the frozen effect.
The FSA has issued revised industry guidance. A new public awareness campaign has been timed to coincide with the seasonal spike in slush ice drink sales at children’s indoor play areas, leisure facilities and outdoor events.
FSA Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Robin May said: “As we head into the summer holidays, we want parents to be aware of the potential risks associated with slush ice drinks containing glycerol. While these drinks may seem harmless and side effects are generally mild, they can, especially when consumed in large quantities over a short time, pose serious health risks to young children.
“That’s why we’re recommending that children under seven should not consume these drinks at all, and children aged 7 to 10 should have no more than one 350ml serving. We’re working closely with industry to ensure appropriate warnings are in place wherever these drinks are sold, but in the meantime, we are asking parents and carers to take extra care when buying drinks for young children, particularly during warmer months when consumption of ‘slushies’ typically increases.”
At very high levels of exposure, typically when several servings of these products are consumed by a child in a short space of time, glycerol can cause shock, very low blood sugar levels and loss of consciousness. Parents should ask sellers whether drinks contain glycerol and review product labels or signage at point of sale. The FSA advises consumers to avoid products if they’re unsure about ingredients and seek medical advice if a child develops symptoms.
This advice also applies to ready-to-drink slush ice drinks with glycerol in pouches and home kits containing glycerol slush concentrates. The FSA’s updated guidance is based on the latest scientific evidence and is designed to help families make informed choices and keep children safe.
The FSA will be monitoring the situation carefully and will take further action in the future if necessary. As well as unconsciousness, glycerol can cause five other symptoms. If a child becomes unwell with headaches, nausea or vomiting soon after consuming slush ice drinks, you should immediately give them drinks or food containing sugar and call 111 for medical advice. If a child becomes drowsy or confused, you should call 999 for urgent medical attention.