A new study has raised alarms about the health risks associated with slushie consumption in young children, particularly those under eight. Medical experts warn that slushies containing glycerol—a common ingredient used to prevent the drink from freezing—can lead to serious health issues, including low blood sugar and unconsciousness. The study, published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, reviewed 21 hospital cases of children who fell ill after consuming slushies and found a concerning pattern of illness linked to glycerol.
Glycerol Intoxication and Its Dangers
Researchers from University College Dublin, led by Prof. Ellen Crushell, have identified glycerol intoxication syndrome as the main cause of the health problems associated with slushies. Glycerol is a sugar substitute used in slushies to keep them from freezing solid. While it is considered safe in small quantities for adults, it poses risks to young children who are more vulnerable to the effects of certain substances.
The study found that glycerol can cause several dangerous symptoms in children, including reduced consciousness, hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), lactic acidosis (excess lactic acid in the blood), and hypokalaemia (low potassium levels). The combination of these symptoms can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Health experts are concerned that the potential dangers of glycerol in slushies are not well understood by the public, and existing guidelines may not be sufficient to protect young children.
Consistent Pattern of Illness After Slushie Consumption
The research team reviewed medical records of children who were treated in emergency departments after drinking slushies. Most of the cases occurred between 2018 and 2024, affecting children aged two to nearly seven years old. All 21 children were diagnosed with hypoglycaemia, a condition characterized by dangerously low blood sugar, upon arrival at the hospital.
The study shows a consistent pattern of acute illness following slushie consumption. In 15 documented cases, 14 children developed symptoms within an hour of drinking a slushie. The symptoms included dizziness, confusion, and difficulty staying awake—clear signs of reduced consciousness. While the children were quickly treated and discharged, researchers are now calling for stronger regulations to ensure the safety of slushie consumption in children.
Calls for Stricter Slushie Regulations
Currently, public health guidelines in the UK advise against giving slushies containing glycerol to children under the age of four. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) also recommends limiting slushie consumption to one per day for children aged five to ten. However, these guidelines may not be enough to prevent harm. The new research suggests that the risks may be more significant for children up to eight years old.
Experts argue that the current guidelines based on age may not fully protect young children. Glycerol affects children differently depending on their body weight and other factors such as whether they have eaten before drinking the slushie or engaged in physical activity. Some experts suggest that public health recommendations should be based on a child’s body weight rather than just their age.
Risks Linked to Glycerol in Slushies
The study raises concerns about the lack of transparency in slushie ingredients, especially when it comes to the glycerol content. Estimating a safe dosage of glycerol for children has proven difficult, and the amount of glycerol in each slushie can vary depending on the brand and the way it is made. This makes it hard for parents to assess the safety of these drinks and whether they pose a risk to their children.
While most children who consumed slushies containing glycerol in the study recovered quickly, one child who drank another slushie at the age of seven experienced similar symptoms. This highlights the ongoing risk for children even after they recover from an initial episode. Experts are calling for clearer labeling on slushies so parents can make more informed decisions.
The Need for Public Health Action
The findings of this study highlight the growing need for stronger regulations on slushie sales, especially those containing glycerol. The researchers argue that slushies offer little to no nutritional value and should not be considered a healthy drink for children. With no significant health benefits, slushies should be regulated more strictly to protect young consumers from potential harm.
The current guidelines, which advise against slushie consumption for children under four, are not enough. The researchers believe that these drinks should be off-limits for children up to eight or that recommendations should be based on a child’s weight rather than their age. These changes would help ensure that slushie consumption is safer for children.
What Can Parents Do?
As health experts call for stronger regulations, parents are encouraged to be cautious when it comes to slushie consumption. If children do drink slushies, it is important to do so in moderation and ensure that they are aware of the risks. Parents should also check the ingredients list to see if glycerol is included and avoid giving their children slushies containing this ingredient, especially if they are under the recommended age.
Health experts also stress that slushies should not be a regular part of a child’s diet. Instead, children should be encouraged to drink healthier beverages, such as water, milk, and natural fruit juices, to maintain proper hydration and nutrition.
The research underscores the need for greater awareness and regulatory changes in the slushie market. As more information comes to light, it is crucial that parents and caregivers are well-informed about the potential risks of these popular drinks. Public health officials should act swiftly to ensure that children’s safety remains a top priority.
