Wiggly Alcohol Tempts Teens

by SAMHSA

Remember when your mother gave you jiggly, slippery gelatin desserts? Most of us have fond memories of those brightly colored treats. But times have changed, and a different kind of gelatin may be offered to your child. This new twist on the old classic features an ingredient that is dangerous for young people - alcohol.

Making gelatin with alcohol is a surprise to many people, even well-informed moms and dads. This recipe results in a product, known as "zippers," that looks like regular gelatin but is packed with alcohol. Gelatin's sweet flavor helps mask the taste of commonly used liquors, making it tough to taste the alcohol. When a person can't taste the alcohol, it is difficult to know how much was used in the recipe. But when it comes to kids and teens, any alcohol is too much.

So, when your child is used to easing her sore throat with a dish of gelatin, how do you talk with her about the kind that is made with alcohol? Many parents find that talking about family expectations and alcohol in various discussions, as opportunities arise, is more effective than a long lecture focused on alcohol - so look for times to bring it up in a conversation.

As you consider how to talk about this topic, here are some facts to know and share with your child:

Gelatin containing alcohol can be made at home or purchased online or from stores. Teens may bring it to school, parties, or fun events. Warn your child that gelatin with alcohol can come in different flavors and colors, and often is put in attractive containers. Help your teen plan for the situation with ways to say "no" when he's offered a treat that he's not sure about. Let him know that he should be polite but firm. For tips on teaching your child refusal skills, click here.

The effects of alcohol-laced gelatin can "sneak up" on a person because alcohol is absorbed slowly. Often, before people even realize that the dessert they ate contains alcohol, their decision-making and driving skills have started to decline. Alcohol - whether it is disguised in gelatin or not - has harmful effects on young bodies and brains. (Click here for more information on alcohol's effects.)

Many teens can be fooled when alcohol-laced gelatin is offered to them. You may want to make a rule that your teen is responsible for ensuring that everything she eats or drinks contains no alcohol - even if that means passing up gelatin shaped as "ice cubes" or served in plastic glasses or paper cups that look like tempting snacks.

Even though young people need to realize that they should avoid gelatin containing alcohol, there is a fine line between protecting your child and scaring him or creating distrust with friends. Gelatin fruit salads and puddings are still favorites and can be part of a good diet. However, gelatin combined with alcohol can have dangerous effects and, according to one adult, "can get you messed up fast."

About the Author

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SAMHSA works to improve the quality and availability of substance abuse prevention, alcohol and drug addiction treatment, and mental health services. Includes links to support groups, information resources, events and articles.