18/07/2025
Did you know that some slush ice drinks or ‘slushies’ can be dangerous for young children?
Slush ice drinks may contain glycerol, an ingredient used in place of sugar.
If young children consume large quantities of glycerol it can cause sickness and headaches, hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), shock and loss of consciousness.
We advise that slush ice drinks containing glycerol shouldn’t be consumed by children under 7. Children under 10 should only have one 350ml drink - that’s about the size of a fizzy drink can.
Check with the seller about the drink’s glycerol content – don’t buy if in doubt.
For more information about our guidance on iced slush drinks visit: https://www.food.gov.uk/glycerol