Health warning issued after counterfeit vodka seized

Our partner Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has issued a public health warning after they recently seized a number of bottles of counterfeit vodka, which contained isopropyl alcohol, which can be poisonous.

The fake alcohol recovered was sold in 35cl bottles, commonly known as half bottles, and was fraudulently labelled as "Glen's". 

The public should be aware that when opened, counterfeit alcohol may have a strange smell and will taste differently to the genuine product. It should not be consumed. 

When drank, even in small amounts, isopropyl is dangerous. Symptoms of isopropyl alcohol poisoning can include abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, confusion, slow breathing, and in worst cases, coma or death. 
 
If you think there’s a problem with alcohol, food or any other drink you’ve been offered in Scotland, or if you work within the food and drink sector and want to report a concern, you can:

• Call the free and confidential Scottish Food Crime Hotline in partnership with Crimestoppers on 0800 028 7926, or
• Complete the online form. Information can also be given anonymously
• Find out about the Scottish Food Crime and Incidents Unit at Food Standards Scotland. 

If you think you have drunk fake alcohol, seek medical advice immediately by contacting your GP or NHS 111. Do not drink any more of the product and store it in a safe place to allow for it to be analysed. 

 Find out more about food crime.

3 September 2024