Health board shares warning after fake vodka containing lethal chemical

NHS Lanarkshire has echoed a warning over fake vodka being sold in shops, which could cause death if ingested.

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) warned that 35cl counterfeit half bottles were found to be fraudulently labelled as Glen’s Vodka and sold last month.

The fakes were found to contain the chemical isopropyl, which is not intended for human consumption.

FSS warned that the fake spirit may have a strange smell and taste differently from genuine vodka.

If ingested, symptoms can range from abdominal pain, vomiting and dizziness, to slow breathing, coma, and even death.

Every genuine bottle of Glen’s vodka has a laser etched lotcode applied to the bottle. FSA via Supplied

Customers have been warned to be extra vigilant when purchasing the spirit and are being urged to check for a laser etched lot code, which is applied to genuine Glen’s vodka between the rear label and the base of the bottle.

A spokesperson for NHS Larkshire said: “Food Standards Scotland have issued a public health warning after counterfeit vodka was found to contain isopropyl, which can be harmful if consumed.

“The counterfeit vodka recovered was sold in 35cl bottles and fraudulently labelled as Glen’s.”

Anyone who believes they may have consumed counterfeit alcohol and/or is showing any symptoms is asked to contact NHS 24 on 111 immediately.

Anyone with information on the manufacture or sale of counterfeit alcohol is asked to contact the Scottish Food Crime Hotline on 0800 028 7926 or online, in partnership with Crimestoppers.