FSAI: Children 10 and Under Should Not Consume Glycerol Slush Ice Drinks
The FSAI warns children aged 10 and under against consuming glycerol-containing slush ice drinks due to potential severe health effects, citing an EFSA risk assessment. Manufacturers and retailers must display warnings. For others, consumption should be limited to moderation.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) advises that children aged 10 and under should not consume slush ice drinks containing glycerol. This warning follows a new risk assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Children in this age group may experience headaches, nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, severe symptoms like shock, low blood sugar, and loss of consciousness. Glycerol, an EU-approved additive, creates the slushy effect and is used to lower sugar content in drinks. While generally not harmful, high levels in slush ice drinks are a concern for young children.
The FSAI has updated its voluntary industry guidelines, requiring safe glycerol quantities in slush ice drink concentrates. Manufacturers of prepackaged and make-at-home syrup concentrates must include a warning on their packs. Retailers selling unpackaged slush ice drinks with glycerol should display permanent point-of-sale warnings stating the product contains glycerol and is not recommended for children aged 10 and under.
FSAI Chief Executive Greg Dempsey stated this advice is based on the latest scientific data, including the EFSA assessment. He noted that slush ice drinks are not part of a healthy balanced diet. For the general population, these drinks should be consumed in moderation as a treat. The FSAI previously raised this issue with the European Commission, leading to the current EFSA risk assessment.