What is glycerol and why is it in slush ice drinks?
Glycerol (E 422) is an approved additive in the European Union commonly used in food and drinks to improve texture and sweetness. It is used in slush ice drinks as a substitute or partial substitute for sugar. It helps maintain the slushy texture by preventing the liquid from freezing solid.
Is glycerol safe to consume?
Yes, glycerol is recognised in the European Union as being safe for consumption by the general population when used in appropriate amounts. However, because young children have a lower body weight, if they consume large quantities of glycerol at one time, some young children can possibly experience side effects, such as headaches, nausea and vomiting.
Why should young children avoid slush ice drinks containing glycerol?
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) recommends that children aged four years and under should not consume slush ice drinks due to potential side effects such as headaches, nausea and vomiting. The Department of Health’s Healthy Eating Guidelines has placed slush ice drinks on the top shelf of the healthy eating food pyramid, meaning that they are not part of a healthy balanced diet and should only be consumed in moderation as a treat. Where children aged between five and ten years consume slush ice drinks, consumption should be limited to no more than one per day.
How do I know if a slush ice drink contains glycerol?
Not all slush ice drinks contain glycerol. Some only contain sugar. However, glycerol is sometimes used in these drinks, so that manufacturers can reduce the sugar content. Pre-packaged slush ice drinks will have an ingredients list that can be checked for declaration of glycerol or E422. Slush ice drinks containing glycerol that are sold unpackaged in a retail setting, for example from a slush ice machine, may not be labelled as containing glycerol, but the FSAI is advising the industry selling these to display point-of-sale warnings stating, “this product contains glycerol and is not recommended for children aged 4 and under”. If you are in any doubt, ask the vendor selling it.
What are the potential side effects of consuming too much glycerol?
Excessive consumption of glycerol can cause headaches, nausea and vomiting in young children. At very high levels, it could potentially lead to severe symptoms such as shock, hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), and loss of consciousness.
What precautions should parents/guardians/caregivers take?
For children aged four and under: Avoid slush ice drinks containing glycerol.
For children aged between five and ten years: One slush ice drink per day is unlikely to cause ill effects, but moderation is key.
For all other ages: slush ice drinks are not a healthy option for a balanced diet, so irrespective of whether glycerol is present in them or not, monitor and limit the intake of slush ice drinks, especially in settings where free refills are available.
What should I do if my child shows symptoms of glycerol intoxication?
After consuming slushed ice drinks, if your child experiences headaches, nausea or vomiting, or on the rare occasion, severe symptoms, such as shock or loss of consciousness, seek medical attention immediately.
What else is the FSAI doing?
The FSAI has developed voluntary guidelines for the industry. These guidelines require the industry to use the minimum quantity of glycerol necessary when making slush ice drinks; ensure that their customers are aware of the FSAI’s advice for younger children in relation to slush ice drinks; display point-of-sale warnings stating “this product contains glycerol and is not recommended for children aged 4 and under”; and to avoid offering free refills of slush ice drinks to younger children.
The FSAI has raised this issue with the European Commission and other Member States. Any change to the current food additive legislation, that may be necessary, will have to carried out at European level.