FSAI Safety Warning Over Slushies For Kids
FSAI Safety Warning Over Slushies For Kids
Words: Hannah Lemass
Image: Unsplash
Slushy, slush puppy, icee, whatever you choose to call them, we can all agree they are an elite staple of summer refreshments. But the Food Safety Authority of Ireland has come out with a warning highlighting that some of these frosty delights are not entirely safe in large quantities for little ones.
The FSAI issued the warning for parents, guardians, and caregivers asking them to limit young children’s consumption of slushies containing glycerol.
What is Glycerol?
Glycerol, an EU-approved additive, is used in slush ice drinks to lower sugar content and create the slushy texture. While generally safe, its effects on children under ten when consumed in large quantities have been highlighted as a cause for concern.
Side effects include headaches, nausea, and vomiting. For children aged four and under, the FSAI recommends such drinks should be avoided entirely, and for children aged five to ten, intake should be limited to maximum one per day.
FSAI Guidelines
To address these concerns, the FSAI has developed voluntary guidelines for the slush sellers. These guidelines recommend using the minimum amount of glycerol necessary, informing customers about the FSAI’s advice regarding children, displaying point-of-sale warnings stating, “This product contains glycerol and is not recommended for children aged four and under,” and avoiding offering free refills to young children.
Chief Executive of FSAI, Dr Pamela Byrne reminds that slush drinks are on the top shelf of the food pyramid, “meaning that they are not part of a healthy balanced diet and should only be consumed in moderation as a treat.” She also added that while they don’t wish to cause parents undue worry the side effects of glycerol intoxication can be severe and care should be taken.
“High consumption of glycerol containing slush ice drinks over a short period of time by young children could cause headaches, nausea and vomiting. On rare occasions, it could potentially lead to severe symptoms such as shock, hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) and loss of consciousness.”
Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive of FSAI
The FSAI say they are working with the European Commission and other European Member States to review and potentially amend food additive legislation regarding glycerol. So it is yet to be seen what the future holds for the selling practices of these icy treats.
