A popular iced slushy drink has been linked to a series of alarming health incidents involving young children, prompting fresh warnings from health experts.
The concern gained national attention after Kim Moore, a mother from the UK, reported that her 4-year-old daughter suddenly collapsed after consuming a slushy drink at a children’s party. The child, named Marnie, became pale and unresponsive within minutes of drinking less than half the cup. She was rushed to hospital, where doctors found her blood sugar levels had fallen to dangerously low levels. Marnie remained unconscious for nearly 30 minutes before stabilizing and required several days of hospital care.
Doctors later connected the episode to glycerol, a sweetener used in some slushy drinks to maintain their semi-frozen texture. While glycerol is generally recognized as safe for adults, experts say young children can be particularly vulnerable to its effects.
Study Finds Multiple Cases
Marnie’s case is not unique. A recent medical study documented at least 21 cases of children falling ill after drinking glycerol-containing slushies. Reported symptoms included headaches, nausea, vomiting, irritability, lethargy, dangerously low blood sugar, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
Researchers warn that children under the age of 8 are especially at risk due to their smaller body size and developing metabolic systems.
Health Expert Guidance
Food safety authorities are now urging caution. While slush drinks may seem like harmless treats, experts recommend that young children should not consume products containing glycerol. For older children, parents are advised to strictly limit intake.
“This is not about a single isolated case—it is a public health issue,” one researcher noted. “Parents need to be aware that these drinks can have serious consequences for young children.”
A Mother’s Call for Change
Following her daughter’s health scare, Kim Moore has publicly campaigned against the sale of glycerol-based slushy drinks to children. She described the ordeal as “terrifying” and warned other parents: “I wouldn’t wish what we went through on anyone. It’s simply not worth the risk.”
The Bottom Line
Slushy drinks containing glycerol remain widely available, often marketed toward families and children. However, experts stress that for children under 8, these products can carry serious health risks. Parents are urged to read labels carefully, stay alert to warning symptoms, and seek medical help immediately if a child becomes unwell after consuming such drinks.
