A recent study warns that slushie drinks, a popular summer treat among children, may pose unexpected health risks. Over the past 15 years, 21 children in the UK and Ireland were hospitalized after consuming slushies containing glycerol. The study, published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, calls for stricter safety guidelines on glycerol usage in these beverages.

Medical records revealed that affected children developed symptoms of glycerol intoxication syndrome, including reduced consciousness, severe hypoglycemia, and metabolic acidosis. Most cases occurred between 2018 and 2024, coinciding with a decline in sugar content due to health concerns and sugar taxes.

Glycerol (E422), used to maintain the slush texture in sugar-free drinks, was identified as the culprit. Symptoms emerged within an hour, primarily affecting boys aged 2-7. Though all children recovered post-treatment, the study highlights a lack of transparency regarding glycerol concentration in these drinks.

Following these findings, UK and Irish food safety agencies advised against slushies for children under 4 and recommended limiting consumption for those under 10. Researchers argue for weight-based safety guidelines, warning that a single 500ml slushie may exceed safe glycerol levels for toddlers.

Given the absence of nutritional benefits, experts urge stricter regulations to protect young consumers from potential health hazards.