At Florida Syrups, we’re committed to offering high-quality slush solutions for all kinds of homes — from fun-loving families to health-conscious households. That’s why our range includes both glycerol-based and glycerol-free slush syrups, giving you the power to choose what works best for your family, your machine, and your preferences.
But what exactly is the difference between Glycerol v Glycerol free sodastream? And how do you decide which one is right for you?
Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Glycerol, and Why Is It Used in Slush Syrups?
Glycerol, also known as glycerine, is a naturally occurring, odourless, sweet-tasting liquid used in a wide range of food products. In the world of slushies, glycerol serves a few key purposes:
- It prevents the drink from freezing solid, helping achieve that perfect slushy texture.
- It adds sweetness without sugar, making it ideal for sugar-reduced drinks.
- It stabilises the mixture, helping flavours stay evenly distributed.
In short, glycerol helps give slushies that smooth, spoonable, semi-frozen feel — especially in low-sugar or sugar-free versions.
Why Offer Glycerol-Free Syrups?
While glycerol is considered safe for most people, recent guidance from the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) suggests caution with young children. Specifically:
- Children under 4 should avoid slushies containing glycerol.
- Children under 11 are advised to have no more than one glycerol-based slush per day.
This is due to a small number of reported cases of glycerol intoxication when consumed quickly or in large amounts by small children — symptoms can include low blood sugar, drowsiness, and in rare cases, loss of consciousness.
That’s why we’ve developed a glycerol-free alternative: to give parents and customers peace of mind, especially when serving drinks to younger kids or offering more than one slush per day.
Glycerol vs. Glycerol-Free: Key Differences
| Feature | Glycerol-Based Syrups | Glycerol-Free Syrups |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Smooth, consistent slush texture | Slightly icier, may separate more quickly |
| Sugar Content | Often lower sugar or sugar-free | Typically contains natural or added sugars |
| Freezing Point | Lower – better flow and consistency | Higher – more prone to partial freezing |
| Best For | Adults and older children | Younger children, health-conscious users |
| Machine Compatibility | Ideal for most modern slush machines | Also compatible, may need slight adjustments |
How to Choose the Right Syrup for You
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which option is best for your household: Glycerol v Glycerol free sodastream:
✅ Choose Glycerol-Based Syrups if:
- You want lower sugar or sugar-free slush options
- You’re making slushies for teens, adults, or older children
- You prioritise smoother texture and easier flow in your machine
- You’re using a Ninja Slushie or another electric machine that benefits from smoother mixes
✅ Choose Glycerol-Free Syrups if:
- You’re serving slush to young children under 8
- You prefer more natural ingredients with traditional sugars
- You want to avoid artificial additives
- You’re cautious about potential sensitivities or health concerns
Remember: both options are compatible with Ninja Slushie machines and most home slush systems. You may simply need to slightly adjust freezing times or machine settings with glycerol-free mixes.
Why We Offer Both at Florida Syrups
Our mission is simple: to make slushie enjoyment fun, safe, and accessible for everyone. That means offering choice without compromise.
We use high-quality ingredients, ensure clear labelling, and continually monitor FSA guidelines to stay ahead of the curve. Whether you choose glycerol or glycerol-free, you can trust you’re getting a delicious, reliable syrup made for modern households.
Conclusion: Make Informed, Delicious Choices
Slushies are meant to be fun — and with Florida Syrups, they still are. By offering both glycerol and glycerol-free options, we give you full control over what you serve at home, how you manage dietary needs, and how you balance flavour with peace of mind.
👉 Explore our full range today at FloridaSyrups.com and choose the syrup that fits your lifestyle, machine, and tastebuds.
