The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a warning that children under the age of seven should not consume slushie drinks containing glycerol due to serious health risks. Glycerol, a natural alcohol and sugar substitute, is used to maintain the slushie texture but can cause glycerol intoxication syndrome in young children.
Symptoms of the syndrome include decreased consciousness, low blood sugar, lactic acidosis, and low potassium levels. The FSA revised its guidance ahead of an expected summer spike in slushie sales at indoor play areas, leisure facilities and outdoor events.
Previously, the regulator advised against giving slushies to children under four and limiting consumption for those aged five to ten to one per day. The updated advice also covers ready-to-drink slushies in pouches and home kits containing glycerol concentrates.
There have been nine confirmed hospital cases of glycerol intoxication in young children in the UK over the past three years. In March, paediatricians recommended under-eights avoid slushies after a review of 21 cases.
Professor Robin May, chief scientific adviser at the FSA, said: 'As we head into the summer holidays, we want parents to be aware of the potential risks. While side-effects are generally mild, they can pose serious health risks to young children, especially when consumed in large quantities.' He added that children aged seven to ten should have no more than one 350ml serving.
The FSA is working with industry to ensure appropriate warnings are in place wherever these drinks are sold and urged parents to take extra care during warmer months when slushie consumption typically increases.
