Recent assessments by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have raised significant concerns regarding glycerol levels in beverages, specifically slush ice drinks favored by children. The EFSA is now urging the European Commission to consider establishing strict numerical limits on glycerol use in these products.
The primary issue is the variation in glycerol (E422) concentrations found in slush products currently available on the market, as there has been no established cap on its use.
At present, there are no legal restrictions on the amount of glycerol that can be used in slush drinks within the EU. Regulations permit glycerol in “flavored drinks” under the principle of “quantum satis,” allowing manufacturers to use the additive as needed for texture, as long as they adhere to good manufacturing practices.
Regulatory limits debate
This recommendation comes amid increasing concerns about the potential health risks associated with slush drinks for children. Last summer, the UK Food Standards Agency launched a campaign advising parents to avoid giving slush ice drinks containing glycerol to children under the age of seven.
On May 6, EFSA issued an opinion at the request of the European Commission, specifically addressing glycerol levels in slush ice drinks and dealcoholized wine.
According to EFSA, one serving of these glycerol-laden slush drinks could surpass the acute reference dose for both children and, in some cases, adults. The organization strongly recommended that the commission consider implementing numerical maximum limits for glycerol in beverages.
Additional findings from the EFSA assessment indicated that children could exceed safe consumption thresholds after just one standard serving of slush. EFSA suggests that glycerol concentrations in such beverages should be significantly reduced to prevent acute health effects.
Reported symptoms in children after consuming these drinks included nausea, vomiting, headaches, hypoglycemia, shock, and loss of consciousness.
Reaction to the EFSA update
Safe Food Advocacy Europe (SAFE) has emphasized that it has been a decade since the first assessment of glycerol without the establishment of maximum safety levels. Despite ongoing safety concerns, the food industry continues to use glycerol without regulation.
“We cannot trust the industry to prioritize health. This is why we call for numerical maximum levels of glycerol for all foods, beyond EFSA’s recommendation for drinks, to cover all ultra-processed foods that pose a risk for everyone, particularly for children,” states Luigi Tozzi, deputy director of SAFE.
“Europe needs to take seriously all the evidence linking ultra-processed foods with adverse health outcomes, enforce taxes on unhealthy additives to motivate reformulation, and actively promote the consumption of whole foods among Europeans. Ultra-processed foods represent a public health issue that requires immediate attention.”
In response, Nicholas Hodac, director general of UNESDA Soft Drinks Europe, remarked, “Our sector respects the essential role that EFSA plays in the scientific assessment of food additives and appreciates its independent, evidence-based work.”
“We will await the commission’s decision regarding appropriate risk management measures and, as always, our sector will comply with the relevant regulatory requirements.”
Key Takeaways
- The EFSA recommends establishing numerical limits for glycerol in beverages, particularly slush drinks for children.
- Current EU regulations allow glycerol under the principle of “quantum satis,” leading to variable concentrations in products.
- Children may exceed safe glycerol levels after consuming just one standard slush drink.
- Reported health issues related to glycerol consumption include nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
- Advocacy groups stress the need for wider regulations on ultra-processed foods containing glycerol.
- Industry representatives acknowledge EFSA’s role and await regulatory decisions on glycerol use.
FAQ
What is glycerol?
Glycerol, also known as E422, is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and thickening agent in various food products.
What are the current regulations regarding glycerol in the EU?
Currently, there are no specific legal limits on glycerol concentrations in slush drinks, allowing manufacturers to use it under the principle of “quantum satis.”
What health risks are associated with glycerol consumption in children?
Consumption can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
What actions are being called for by advocacy groups?
Advocacy groups are urging for strict numerical maximum levels for glycerol in all food products, especially those that are ultra-processed.
As discussions about food safety continue, the emphasis on regulating glycerol reflects a broader concern for the health impacts of ultra-processed foods on children and the general population.
