Experts have raised concerns over the potential risks of slushies, particularly those containing the additive glycerol, for young children. The flavoured drinks, which are made from syrup and crushed ice, can cause serious health issues in children under the age of eight. Research involving 21 children, aged two to seven, from the UK and Ireland, revealed that drinking slushies with high levels of glycerol can lead to shock, hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), and even unconsciousness if consumed too rapidly. In some cases, the children required emergency care.
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Glycerol, a naturally occurring alcohol and sugar substitute, is commonly used to preserve and sweeten food. While it can be found in various foods, experts have highlighted the dangers of excessive consumption in young children. Ingesting large amounts of glycerol can cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, bloating, dizziness, and diarrhoea. On the skin, it can also lead to redness and itching, which is why it is sometimes used in skincare products. However, in younger children, high levels of glycerol can cause glycerol intoxication syndrome, which can have serious consequences such as loss of consciousness and seizures.
Despite these risks, glycerol is a common food additive and, when consumed in small amounts, is generally considered safe. It is found in many everyday foods, including tortilla wraps, chewing gum, and icing for cakes. In these instances, glycerol is primarily used to preserve the product and improve texture. In cereal bars, condiments like sauces and salad dressings, and even some spices, glycerol acts as a stabilising agent or sweetener, preventing the product from drying out.
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Other food products that may contain glycerol include ice cream, where it helps prevent the formation of ice crystals, and canned foods, where it serves as a preservative and enhances flavour and colour. While the additive is not harmful in small quantities, parents are now being advised to be cautious about giving young children slushies or other products that contain higher levels of glycerol.
