A retrospective case review of 21 children who fell ill after drinking slush drinks has led researchers to warn of the dangers of slush for under eights.
The study found that consumption of slush ice drinks containing glycerol may cause a clinical syndrome of glycerol intoxication in young children, with symptoms including decreased consciousness and low blood sugar.
Almost all of the children (93%) in the study had become unwell within 60 minutes of drinking slush and none had any relevant past medical history.
The researchers said public health bodies should ensure clear messaging regarding the fact that younger children, especially those under eight years of age, should avoid slush ice drinks containing glycerol.
Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) issued new voluntary industry guidance in 2023 on glycerol in slush-ice drinks, advising that they should not be sold to children four years of age and under.
