Boozy ice blocks banned amid underage drinking fears
A brand of alcoholic ice blocks has been temporarily banned in South Australia over concerns the ‘Boozicles’ resemble a nostalgic treat sold at school canteens.
Alcoholic ice blocks called Boozicles have been temporarily banned amid concerns they might appeal to minors due to their similarity to Zooper Doopers.
“While it is perfectly fine for adults to enjoy alcoholic products in moderation, I think the way this product has been designed is concerning,” Consumer and Business Affairs Minister Michael Brown said when announcing the ban.
“Designing packaging to mimic that of Zooper Dooper and using flavour names inspired by childhood favourites … is clearly something that could appeal to minors – or could even be inadvertently consumed by children, if found in the freezer.
“A temporary ban will give us time to look at the reach of this type of product in South Australia and consider whether further action should be taken”.
According to the latest Government Gazette, the minister was satisfied “that the liquor is likely to have a special appeal to minors”.
A 42-day ban would make the manufacture, sale or supply of Boozicles illegal while authorities decide whether to ban the product permanently.
The Liquor Licensing Act gives the Minister the power to issue temporary bans on liquor products to allow for consultation and drafting laws for a permanent ban if there is concern that it would appeal to minors or be confused with non-alcoholic products.
Boozicles come in a variety of sugary flavours, including “cracking cola”, “grouse grape”, “lewse lime” and “ripping raspberry”, with its packaging featuring a trendy cartoon koala in sunglasses.
Each 150-millilitre ice block has an alcohol by volume percentage of 8.7 per cent, making it equivalent to one standard drink.
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The Boozicles website describes the product as “equal parts refreshment and buzz”, adding that they “are the perfect sesh sidekick”.
According to the Boozicles website, the product was available at the Prince Albert Hotel, NYX Bar & Lounge, 111 Hindley Street and Cherry.
Minister Brown said Liquor and Gambling Commissioner Brett Humphries would be writing to the Queensland-based manufacturer, as well as peak hospitality bodies and licensed venues selling the product, to let them know about the ban.
Boozicles was contacted for comment.
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