Counterfeit vodka could blind drinkers in South Ayrshire

Aug 29 2008

DON’T be duped into buying dodgy vodka – it could damage your health.

Environmental health chiefs have been warned that counterfeit Spar Imperial Vodka could be circulating in South Ayrshire. And they say that anyone who drinks it could end up blind.

The rogue bottles of booze contain harmful levels of methanol – a chemical usually found in low levels in vodka.

An excessive intake can lead to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, blindness and breathing difficulties.

Symptoms can take several hours to develop. Anyone who has drunk the counterfeit spirit should seek immediate medical advice.

South Ayrshire Council were tipped off by the Food Standards Agency after the fake Spar vodka was found on sale in Northumbria. They believe it could be in circulation across the country.

A council statement explains: “Due to the seriousness of this matter the FSA has issued a food alert to local authorities to be on the look out for counterfeit bottles on sale.

“There have been no counterfeit bottles found in any Spar stores, and there are no concerns associated with authentic bottles of their brand of vodka. The only legitimate route of purchasing their own brand of this alcohol in 70cl bottles is in a Spar store. Legitimate bottles will have the following code present on the neck of the bottle 700ml66mm followed by two symbols and then the number 8809.”

The counterfeit booze have an hint of acetone smell, similar to that of nail varnish. Examples seized so far also have the code QI:1445c and a smudged inkjet code reading that looks like 102234 04/08/02. There is no lot code on the neck of the counterfeit bottles.

If you’re offered this vodka for sale contact the council on 01292 618222.