The extent of the distribution of counterfeit alcohol remains uncertain, with seizures reported in Glasgow and Lanarkshire, Scotland. Its presence in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland has yet to be determined.
Consumers in Britain are advised against consuming counterfeit Glen’s Vodka, which has been discovered to contain an industrial solvent.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a warning following the discovery that these fake vodka bottles contain isopropyl alcohol, a toxic substance not safe for human consumption. Ingesting this can rapidly lead to alcohol poisoning, and in extreme cases, death.
Signs of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, intoxication, hypoventilation and coma, along with potential cardiovascular failure. Anyone exhibiting these symptoms should immediately seek medical help.
The extent of distribution of counterfeit alcohol remains unclear, leading FSS and Glen’s to offer advice on identifying fake products. Counterfeit bottles were discovered in Scotland, specifically in Glasgow and Lanarkshire. It is still uncertain if the counterfeit products have spread to England, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
A representative from the Loch Lomond Group, which manages Glen’s Vodka, stated, “The well-being and safety of the public and our many dedicated Glen’s customers is our utmost concern.”
“We are actively collaborating with Food Standards Scotland and other relevant authorities to promptly resolve this issue. We encourage any customers who suspect they have a counterfeit product to reach out to their local council’s environmental health service or the Food Standards Scotland Food Crime and Incidents Unit as soon as possible.”
The Food Standards Agency has reported that the counterfeit vodka, found in 35cl bottles, might exhibit an unusual odor and taste differently from authentic vodka. One consumer reported the bottle emitted a “strong smell of nail varnish remover.”
Authentic Glen’s vodka bottles are marked with a laser-etched lot code located between the rear label and the bottle’s base. Should you find a bottle without a laser code, identifiable markings on the base, or if the vodka emits a strong odor, do not consume it.
Legitimate Glen’s Vodka bottles feature base markings that denote the bottle size, fill height, and bottle ID, positioned consistently — bottle size in the top left-hand corner, fill height in the top right, and bottle ID in the bottom left. Despite the presence of a bottle mould number, it should not be used to uniquely identify the product.
For those in possession of compromised bottles, secure the product and inform your Local Authority for guidance and advice. Should you possess any knowledge regarding the manufacture or distribution of fake alcohol, it is critical to reach out to the National Food Crime Unit hotline at 0800 028 1180.
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