Health Warning Issued Over Slushie Drinks for Children Under Eight

Researchers link glycerol in slushies to hospitalizations for young children, urging stricter consumption guidelines.

A study from University College Dublin found 21 cases of children in the UK and Ireland hospitalized due to 'glycerol intoxication syndrome' after consuming slushie drinks.
Symptoms included decreased consciousness, low blood sugar, lactic acidosis, and low potassium, with most cases occurring within an hour of consumption.
Glycerol, a sweetener used to maintain slushie texture, is already not recommended for children under four in the UK, but researchers suggest raising the age limit to eight.
The Food Standards Agency advises limiting slushie consumption for children aged five to ten and discourages free refills for younger children.
Researchers emphasize that slushies have no nutritional benefits and recommend basing safety guidelines on weight rather than age to prevent health risks.