German health agency warns glycerin in slush ice poses risk to children

Slush ice, a semi‑frozen drink popular with children at pools, fairs and supermarkets, often contains the additive glycerin (E 422) to keep the mixture soft and sweet. While the European Food Safety Authority in 2017 found no health concerns, Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has recently warned that high glycerin levels can be hazardous for young children. The BfR tested 62 slush‑ice samples collected between November 2023 and October 2024 and found glycerin concentrations exceeding safe limits. Studies show that doses of 250 mg per kilogram of body weight can lower intracranial pressure, and a single cup of the product may already deliver that amount to a child. The agency therefore advises parents to limit children’s consumption of slush ice and calls for stricter monitoring of glycerin use in these foods.