FSS issues updated guidance on glycerol in slush ice drinks

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has updated its voluntary guidance, advising that slush ice drinks containing glycerol should not be sold to children aged under seven.  

This is an update to industry guidance previously issued in August 2023 and increases the age threshold as a means of reducing the food safety risk to children. FSS also continues to advise that free refill promotions should not be offered to children under 10 years to prevent them from being exposed to excessive amounts of glycerol. . 

The change is based on an updated risk assessment incorporating information from recent glycerol intoxication incidents and assessing the impact of one serving of slush ice drink (350ml) on children with a lower-than-average body weight for their age.  

This most recent risk assessment takes a more precautionary approach than the initial risk assessment conducted in 2023, which was based on average body weight. As children’s weights vary, body weight has been converted to age in our guidance to provide more practical advice for parents and businesses. 

The guidance was presented at the latest FSS Board meeting on Wednesday 18 June. The Board was also asked to provide a view on longer term options to help manage glycerol intake in young children supporting an enhanced voluntary approach.   

Head of Science at FSS, Jacqui McElhiney, commented: “This update reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting consumers through the best available science and evidence.  

“The updated risk assessment highlights that younger children, particularly those with lower body weight, are more vulnerable to the effects of glycerol. We’re advising that these drinks should not be consumed by children under seven to minimise the risk of harm.  

“Parents, carers and businesses all play an important role in helping to ensure that slush ice drinks are consumed safely.” 

Slush ice drinks can contain glycerol as a substitute for sugar to prevent them from freezing solid. Businesses are advised to only add glycerol at the minimum quantity technically necessary to achieve the slush effect.  

While symptoms of glycerol intoxication are usually mild, when consumed at high levels, glycerol can cause shock, very low blood sugar levels and unconsciousness in young children. 

The updated advice applies to ready-to-drink slush ice drinks with glycerol in pouches and home kits containing glycerol slush concentrates. Information on the glycerol content, or a contact for the manufacturer for further information should be included on the label.