Alert: Potentially harmful counterfeit vodka discovered

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has issued a public health warning after counterfeit vodka was recently seized which confirmed the presence of the chemical isopropyl, which can be harmful if consumed.

The counterfeit vodka was sold in 35cl bottles fraudulently labelled as Glen’s vodka. It may smell or taste unusual and should not be consumed. Even small amounts of isopropyl can be dangerous. Symptoms of isopropyl alcohol poisoning include abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, confusion, slow breathing, and in severe cases, coma or death.

Every genuine bottle of Glen’s vodka has a laser etched lotcode applied to the bottle between the rear label and the base of the bottle.

They will also have the following markings on the base of the bottle - the highlighted three identifiers will not vary (position or detail).

If you think you may have been offered or purchased counterfeit vodka (possibly from a supplier you haven’t previously used) please contact FSS Scottish Food Crime and Incidents Unit – foodcrime@fss.scot – for further advice. In the meantime, please remove any suspect product from sale immediately.

Alternatively please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 028 7926 or online, if you have any information on this counterfeit alcohol.

To read more, go to: Counterfeit vodka discovered | Food Standards Scotland