The FSA (Food Standards Agency) has issued a warning regarding the production and distribution of counterfeit vodka, which has adopted the ‘Glen’s Vodka’ label, as it makes its way to stores across the UK.
These bottles contain counterfeit vodka. This is unsafe for consumption as it has been found to contain isopropyl alcohol, an industrial solvent which increases the risk of alcohol poisoning and in severe cases, death. It can be identified by its strange smell and taste which differs from legitimate vodka.
The FSA has provided information below which highlights what to do if you are a consumer or retailer that may have purchased this vodka.
- If the vodka has a strong smell, it is unsafe for consumption. Store it in a safe place and report it to your Local Authority for further instruction and advice.
- Genuine Glen’s Vodka has a laser etched lot code applied to the bottle between the rear label and the base of the bottle. If the purchased bottle does not have this code, it is likely to be a counterfeit.
- Any retailers or businesses who might suspect a product to be counterfeit must remove it off the shelves immediately.
The FSA also encourages anyone with information on the manufacture, production, or distribution of counterfeit alcohol to contact their freephone confidential National Food Crime Unit hotline: 0800 028 1180.
Local Authorities have been warned by the FSA and will be identifying and visiting relevant establishments in their area to check for counterfeit products and warn businesses about this issue.
You can find out more information and advice by visiting the FSA website at https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-fafa-03-2024
