Glycerol in slushies can make children sick and should not be consumed by those under eight years old, according to a new study from University College Dublin (UCD).
The research reviewed 21 cases of children who presented to medical centres across the UK and Ireland between 2009 and 2024 after consuming slushie drinks. An overwhelming 93% of these children became unwell within 60 minutes of consumption, despite having no relevant previous medical conditions.
Researchers discovered that the glycerol used in slush drinks can cause ‘glycerol intoxication syndrome’ in young children – a condition rarely described in medical literature and never previously linked to slushie consumption.
“This illness has only rarely been described before in the medical literature and never in association with slush ice drinks,” said Professor Ellen Crushell, a metabolic paediatrician at Temple Street children’s hospital and professor at the UCD School of Medicine.
According to The Journal, The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) issued advice last year urging parents to limit young children’s consumption of slush ice drinks containing glycerol due to potential negative side effects including headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
While glycerol is an EU-approved additive used to maintain low sugar content and create the characteristic slushy consistency, concerns about its effects on young children have prompted safety recommendations. The FSAI previously advised that children under four should avoid these drinks entirely, while consumption by older children and adults should be limited to no more than one per day.
However, Professor Crushell’s recommendation goes further, suggesting children should be at least eight years old before consuming slushies. She also called for greater transparency regarding the amount of glycerol used in these products.
Dr. Abigail Collins, National Clinical Lead for the HSE’s Child Health Public Health Programme, emphasized that slush drinks offer no nutritional benefits: “It should also be noted that all slush ice drinks, whether containing sugar or glycerol, convey no health benefits, and are not part of a healthy diet for children of any age.”
Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, junior minister responsible for public health, confirmed she has asked her department and the FSAI to review the study’s findings.