City of York Council is joining the Food Standards Agency to caution residents about the dangers of fake alcohol over the festive season.
The campaign stresses that it’s important to know how to spot – and avoid – fake alcohol if drinkers suspect they’re being offered it.
Vodka is the most counterfeited spirit and can be made with chemicals most usually found in anti-freeze, screen wash or nail polish remover which could leave people blind, in a coma or even worse.
So the advice is not to take a risk on fake alcohol:
- • Watch out for fake versions as well as unfamiliar brand names
- • If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is
- • Watch out for poor quality labelling including spelling mistakes and tampered bottles
- • Buy from a reputable off-licence premise.
Matt Boxall, City of York Council’s Head of Public Protection, said:
“The festive season can sometimes bring stocks of fake alcoholic drinks into the supply chain. Our Trading Standards and Licensing teams work with licensed premises to uphold their responsibilities including recognising legitimate brands and taking precautions to make sure customers are sold the genuine article they’re paying for.
“Anyone with concerns should contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer helpline 0345 4040506.”
See more at: http://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/campaigns/fake-alcohol