Health warning over counterfeit vodka made with medical-grade alcohol

Health officials in Scotland have warned fans of Glen’s vodka to keep an eye out for fake half bottles containing medical disinfectant.

Scammers have hijacked the popular brand to sell counterfeit products containing the chemical isopropyl, which is typically used in hospital settings or in hand sanitiser.

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) say the fake booze will smell and taste ‘very different’ to the Glen’s product people recognise.

Even small amounts of isopropyl can result in abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness and headaches, they warned.

Severe cases can leave drinkers in a coma or even dead.

Genuine bottles of Glen’s have a laser-etched code between the rear label and the base of the bottle which the fake bottles will not.

Anyone concerned they might have drunk the counterfeit vodka, and who is experiencing symptoms, is urged to contact NHS 24 on 111 immediately.

Glen’s, one of the cheaper brands of vodka on the market, is a popular target for scammers.

FSS has previously sent investigators to seize dozens of bottles of fake spirit using the same label from a shop in Coatbridge, Lanarkshire.

And in September last year, the UK-wide Food Standards Agency sent out a warning about another fraud involving isopropyl alcohol in Glen’s bottles.

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