Children under eight should ‘avoid consuming slushy drinks’ after spate of hospitalisations

Glycerol is a naturally occurring alcohol and sugar substitute which helps slush drinks maintain their texture - (Getty Images)

Children under the age of eight should avoid consuming slushy ice drinks containing the sweetening agent glycerol, researchers suggest.

A number of youngsters have become unwell as a result of so-called “glycerol intoxication syndrome”, which caused symptoms like decreased consciousness and low blood sugar, according to a study.