Consumers warned about counterfeit alcohol
Counterfeit alcohol is huge problem in the UK. Many people assume that the problem is restricted to the black market; however, many counterfeit products appear on the shelves in off-licences and in pubs.
The government website nidirect has issued a warning about the serious health risks that fake alcohol poses due to the various chemicals used in its production. The most common chemicals are methanol, drain cleaner and paint stripper. Methanol is commonly used in car antifreeze. These chemicals can cause dizziness and blindness, and in extreme cases they can even kill. Even if there are no immediate problems, they can damage internal organs and the nervous system, and can lead to long-term health problems.
Trading Standards Service inspectors are planning to carry out more spot checks over the festive season to try to tackle the problem. Often landlords and off-licences are unaware of the source of their cheaper alcohol; many just pay less and ask no questions.
Counterfeit bottles look very realistic and are often hard to identify even for the trading standards inspectors.
Drinkaware has issued an online guide to help highlight the dangers of fake alcohol; however, it has highlighted that many people will never be at risk. Jeremy Beadles, former chief executive of the Wine and Spirits Trade Association, said: “The vast majority of alcohol in the UK is produced and sold legitimately. Most pubs, corner shops, off-licenses and other retailers are completely legitimate businesses and wouldn’t get involved with it.”
Trading Standards suggest consumers use the ‘4 Ps’ to check alcohol: place, price, packaging and product. Always buy from a reputable off-licence or shop. If the price is too good to be true, it could be a fake. Examine the packaging for poor-quality printing and check that the UK stamp duty is on the label or the glass. Always check the seal on the cap; if the seal is broken, do not buy. Another tip is to check that the barcode is genuine with a smartphone barcode scanner.
The product itself should also be checked. Vodka is the most commonly counterfeited spirit and many people enjoy trying unusual brands. Be careful, as not all vodkas labelled as Russian are made in Russia; many are actually made in illegal factories in the UK.