History of Slushy in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 15, 2025

A slushy is a flavored ice beverage with a liquid consistency, akin to granitas but less solid. Synonyms include slush, slurpee, frozen beverage, and frozen drink. Slushies can be carbonated or non-carbonated, with the former sometimes referred to as a frozen carbonated drink or beverage. Its defining characteristic is the blend of flavored ice and liquid, creating a semi-frozen, drinkable treat.

1958: Soda stored in freezer becomes slushy, sold to customers

In 1958, Omar Knedlik, experiencing soda machine issues, stored his soda in a freezer, resulting in a slushy consistency. He then sold the slush to his customers, marking the unintentional beginning of the slushy drink phenomenon.

1960: Knedlik partners with John Mitchell to mass-produce slushy machines

In 1960, Omar Knedlik partnered with John Mitchell to start mass-producing slushy machines, expanding the reach of the icy beverage.

1962: Knedlik gains patent for slushy machines

In 1962, Knedlik secured a patent for his slushy machines, protecting the design and functionality of the invention.

1965: 7-Eleven buys ICEE machines and signs licensing deal, adopting "Slurpee" name

In 1965, 7-Eleven purchased three ICEE machines and signed a licensing deal with ICEE, which allowed them to adopt the name "Slurpee" for their version of the frozen drink in American 7-Eleven stores.