The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued an urgent food recall for counterfeit vodka labeled as Glen’s Vodka (35cl), following the discovery of potentially harmful substances in the product. Consumers and businesses are advised to check their stock and avoid consumption of any suspicious bottles.

Product Details:

• Product: Glen’s Vodka
• Pack size: 35cl
• Risk: Contaminated with isopropyl alcohol, a toxic industrial solvent not intended for human consumption.

Health Risks:

Samples of the counterfeit vodka were found to contain isopropyl alcohol, which is unsafe for human consumption. Drinking products containing this substance can cause severe symptoms such as:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Intoxication
• Respiratory depression
• Coma In severe cases, alcohol poisoning and cardiovascular collapse may occur, potentially leading to death. Anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming this product should seek immediate medical attention.

How to Identify Counterfeit Glen’s Vodka:

Consumers should be cautious when purchasing Glen’s Vodka and follow these guidelines to identify affected bottles:

• Missing Laser Etched Lot Code: Legitimate Glen’s Vodka bottles feature a laser-etched lot code between the rear label and the base. Counterfeit bottles lack this crucial detail.
• Unusual Odour or Taste: Counterfeit vodka may have a strange smell or taste different from genuine vodka. If the product smells off or unusual, do not consume it.

What to Do:

• Do not consume: If you have purchased or suspect you possess counterfeit Glen’s Vodka, avoid drinking it.
• Report to Local Authorities: Store the product safely and contact your local authority for further instructions.
• National Food Crime Unit Hotline: Anyone with information about the manufacture or sale of counterfeit vodka is urged to contact the confidential hotline at 0800 028 1180.

Advice to Businesses:

The FSA has issued a Food Alert for Action to local authorities, requesting them to visit relevant establishments, inspect stock, and inform businesses about this issue.

Source:https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-fafa-03-2024