Australian consumers have been warned of a rise in fake alcohol manufacturing, after an influx of black market booze caused severe illness across the UK last week.
The fake vodka, containing up to 235 times more methanol than the legal limit, has been sold within trusted liqour licensed retailers, and could cause blindness and death.
Britain’s Local Government Association spokesman, Councillor Paul Bettison, said the dangers are fatal.
“Everyone wants a bargain, especially at this time of year, but surely the potential health risks far outweigh any financial savings. Purchasing it also does nothing to help legitimate businesses stay afloat,” Mr Bettison said.
The news of the influx in counterfeit spirits comes just months after hundreds were killed in India due to alcohol containing unsafe chemicals.
Since the deaths, counterfeit alcohol has made its way to Western countries.
While cases of severe reactions to fake alcohol have not yet been reported in Australia, Government officials are cautioning all consumers to be aware over the festive season.
Signs that a bottle of vodka may be counterfeit include:
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