Counterfeit vodka warning
Businesses and consumers are being warned to be on the look out for counterfeit Smirnoff vodka which could potentially pose health risks.
Trading Standards has discovered that the fake spirits have been sold in the Weston-Super-Mare area. Concerns were raised after the complainant reported that a batch of the vodka sold to a nightclub had a hint of an acetone or nail varnish smell.
Initial examinations found problems with the labelling and, following a sample analysis by Trading Standards officers, the contaminated bottles were found to contain industrial solvents, possibly screenwash.
Consuming this solvent can cause abdominal pain, sickness or dizziness, and in large amounts could cause blindness and even death.
Devon and Somerset Trading Standards Service says the bottles are dangerous, and it is concerned that the counterfeit bottles could be offered for sale more widely in the South West, including local pubs and clubs in Devon and Somerset.
Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for Trading Standards, said: “Pubs, clubs, off-licences and consumers should be aware that if they are offered vodka which is too cheap, it is unlikely to be genuine. Counterfeit vodka can cause serious health problems and we would urge local traders to check their stock and ensure that they can trace the products they sell to a reliable source.”
Anyone with any concerns about counterfeit vodka should look out for:
- poorly printed labels;
- a lack of lot numbers (which can be found either laser etched on the glass bottle or ink-jet printed on the label);
- sediment at the bottom of the bottle.
Anyone with information about counterfeit vodka being purchased or sold should contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 or visit http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/
