How many calories in a 16 oz slushie? Your Nutrition Diet Guide

October 17, 2025 •

4 min read

A 16-ounce name-brand Pepsi Slurpee contains approximately 110 calories, but this can vary dramatically depending on the flavor and brand. Understanding how many calories in a 16 oz slushie is crucial for anyone monitoring their sugar and calorie intake, as these seemingly innocent frozen treats can hide a significant nutritional impact.

Quick Summary

A standard 16-ounce slushie contains a wide range of calories and high amounts of sugar, depending on the brand and flavor. This beverage is made from sugar syrup and crushed ice, offering little to no nutritional value beyond simple carbohydrates. Health-conscious individuals should be aware of the impact these drinks have on daily calorie limits and overall sugar consumption.

Key Points

Calorie Range Varies: A 16 oz slushie can contain anywhere from 110 to over 270 calories, with figures depending heavily on the brand and specific flavor chosen.
High Sugar Content: A single 16 oz slushie often contains a high concentration of sugar, which is used to prevent the drink from freezing solid. Some varieties can contain more than 67 grams of sugar, exceeding daily recommendations.
Minimal Nutritional Value: Beyond providing calories from sugar, commercially produced slushies offer very little to no nutritional value, lacking fiber, vitamins, and protein.
Associated Health Risks: Frequent consumption of high-sugar drinks is linked to health problems including weight gain, an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and dental issues.
Healthier Homemade Alternatives: You can create healthier versions at home by blending frozen fruit with water, sparkling water, or sugar-free drink mixes to control sugar and boost nutrients.
Consider Smoothies for Nutrients: For a more nutrient-dense frozen drink, smoothies made with whole fruits, vegetables, and yogurt are a much better option than a standard slushie.

The Nutritional Breakdown of a 16 oz Slushie

While the exact calorie count can differ by brand, a 16 oz slushie typically falls within a range of 110 to over 270 calories. The primary source of these calories is sugar, with some varieties containing upwards of 67 grams in a single serving. For perspective, the American Heart Association recommends that most adult women consume no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day, and men no more than 36 grams. A single slushie can easily exceed this recommended daily limit.

Why Slushies are High in Sugar

Slushies are created by combining a flavored syrup with crushed ice. For the machine to produce the correct 'slush' consistency without freezing solid, the sugar content of the mix must be between 12% and 22%. The sugar acts as a natural antifreeze, bonding with water molecules to prevent them from crystallizing fully. This high sugar percentage is what gives the drink its signature icy texture, but it also makes it a significant source of empty calories with very little nutritional benefit.

The Health Implications of High Sugar Intake

Regularly consuming high-sugar drinks like slushies has been associated with a range of health issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) links frequent consumption of sugary beverages to:

Weight gain and obesity
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
Higher risk of heart disease
Potential for kidney diseases
Tooth decay and cavities
Gout, a form of arthritis

These empty calories don't provide the same feeling of fullness as solid food, which can lead to overconsumption and make weight management more challenging.

Healthier Alternatives to a Standard Slushie

For those who love frozen treats but want a healthier option, there are several simple and delicious alternatives:

Homemade Fruit Slushies: Blending frozen fruit, like watermelon, mango, or berries, with a splash of water or coconut water creates a naturally sweet and icy drink. Adding a squeeze of lemon or lime can enhance the flavor.
Sugar-Free Drink Mixes: Use sugar-free drink packets, like Crystal Light, mixed with ice and water for a low-calorie version of a classic.
Fizzy Fruit Slush: Combine fresh or frozen fruit with a can of diet soda or flavored sparkling water for a low-sugar, fizzy treat.
Electrolyte Slushies: For post-workout refreshment, blend an electrolyte-rich drink with ice. Look for brands that offer sugar-free options.
Fruit Juice Slush: While fruit juice still contains natural sugar, blending 100% fruit juice with ice offers more vitamins and minerals than artificial syrup.

Slushie vs. Smoothie: A Nutritional Comparison

When choosing a frozen beverage, understanding the difference between a slushie and a smoothie can help you make a more informed decision for your nutrition diet. While a standard slushie is primarily flavored sugar water and ice, a smoothie, if prepared with whole ingredients, can be a nutrient-dense option.


Feature	Standard 16 oz Slushie	Typical 16 oz Smoothie	Recommendation for Nutrition Diet
Calories	~110–270+	200–800+	Moderate your intake of both; focus on ingredient quality.
Primary Ingredients	Water, flavored syrup, sugar, crushed ice	Whole fruits, vegetables, yogurt, milk, protein powder	Choose a smoothie for nutrient density; select a slushie for a rare, high-sugar treat.
Nutritional Value	Very low to none (empty calories)	High (vitamins, fiber, protein)	Smoothies are preferable for adding nutrients to your diet.
Sugar Content	Very high (28–67+g)	Varies based on ingredients; can be high or naturally low	Make homemade smoothies to control sugar content.
Fiber	0g	High (from whole fruits and vegetables)	Fiber in smoothies aids digestion and promotes fullness.

How to Enjoy Slushies Mindfully

If you're going to indulge in a slushie, there are a few ways to make a more mindful choice. First, check the nutritional information for the specific brand and flavor, if available, to know exactly what you're consuming. Some brands may offer low-calorie or sugar-free options. Opt for a smaller size, such as a 12 oz, to reduce your overall sugar and calorie intake. Finally, consider a slushie a rare treat rather than a regular part of your routine. By being aware of the nutritional trade-offs, you can enjoy it without derailing your diet goals.

Conclusion

While a 16 oz slushie can be a refreshing treat, it is essentially a high-sugar, low-nutrition beverage. The calories can range from approximately 110 to over 270, depending on the flavor and brand, with a sugar content that often exceeds daily recommendations. Healthier, nutrient-dense alternatives like homemade fruit slushies offer a way to enjoy a similar experience without the negative health impacts associated with high sugar intake. By understanding the nutritional content and exploring better options, you can make smarter choices for your diet. https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/rethink-your-drink/index.html

Frequently Asked Questions

The calories can vary significantly, but some brands, like Fosters Freeze, report that their 16 oz blue raspberry slush contains 270 calories, all from carbohydrates.

The primary source of calories in a slushie is sugar, which comes from the flavored syrup used to create the drink.

Yes, many brands and recipes offer sugar-free alternatives. These versions often use non-caloric artificial sweeteners and can be made at home with diet sodas or sugar-free flavor packets.

A standard slushie is mostly empty calories from sugar, while a smoothie made with whole ingredients like fruits and vegetables can be a rich source of vitamins, fiber, and protein. Smoothies are generally the more nutritious option.

Slushies require a high sugar concentration (typically 12-22%) in the syrup-to-water mixture. The sugar acts as an antifreeze, preventing the water from freezing solid and creating the signature slushy texture.

Yes, because slushies are high in empty calories and sugar, and the body does not register liquid calories in the same way as solid food, they can contribute to overall weight gain.

A simple alternative is to blend frozen fruit, like berries or watermelon, with a small amount of water or sparkling water. This provides natural sweetness and nutrients with much less added sugar.