Food safety authority issues warning to parents over slushee drinks

It has recommended that children aged four and under should not consume glycerol-containing slush ice drinks. Meanwhile, consumption should be limited to no more than one a day for children aged between five and 10 years old.

Glycerol gives these drinks the slushy effect, and such drinks are sold via ice machines in a variety of outlets and also sold pre-packed in supermarkets and other retailers.

The FSAI said it has developed voluntary guidelines for industry, including using the minimum amount of glycerol necessary when making these drinks and to avoid offering free refills to younger children.

Dr Pamela Byrne, the chief executive of the FSAI, said: “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.

“Whilst we do not want to cause parents, guardians or caregivers undue worry, we are advising that no child under 4 years of age should be consuming these slush ice drinks, and that consumption should be limited to no more than one per day for children aged between five and ten years of age.” 

The FSAI added that it had raised this issue with the European Commission and other member states but that any change to food additive legislation would have to be carried out at a European level.