Researchers Urge Ban on Slushies With Glycerol for Children Under Eight

A study highlights health risks including unconsciousness and low blood sugar in young children consuming glycerol-laden slush drinks.

A study from University College Dublin reviewed 21 cases of children in the UK and Ireland hospitalized after consuming slush drinks containing glycerol between 2018 and 2024.
Symptoms of glycerol intoxication syndrome included unconsciousness, hypoglycemia, lactic acidosis, and low potassium levels, with most children becoming ill within an hour of consumption.
The Food Standards Agency currently advises against slush drinks with glycerol for children under four, but researchers recommend raising the age limit to at least eight due to safety concerns.
The study attributes a possible increase in cases to the use of glycerol as a sugar substitute, potentially influenced by the sugar tax, and calls for clearer public health guidelines.
All affected children recovered quickly with treatment, but researchers emphasize that slushies provide no nutritional benefits and are not recommended as part of a balanced diet.