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Brazil: At least a dozen poisoned by adulterated alcohol
A wave of methanol poisonings has sparked panic in Brazil, leading to the death of one person and multiple suspected cases, prompting the closure of several bars and raising concerns among consumers nationwide.
According to the Ministry of Health, one person died from confirmed methanol poisoning, while 11 other deaths are under investigation. In total, 11 poisonings have been confirmed and around 100 suspected cases have been recorded, mainly in São Paulo state, but also in four other regions and in Brasília.
Local media reported that some victims fell into comas, and one woman lost her sight after drinking vodka in a São Paulo bar. The news has spread fear, with many Brazilians avoiding gin, vodka, and cachaça—the base of the famous caipirinha cocktail.
Health Minister Alexandre Padilha urged citizens to be cautious with distilled spirits, as authorities investigate whether organized crime could be involved in distributing adulterated alcohol. A crisis unit has been created to secure methanol antidotes both domestically and abroad.
Methanol, an industrial chemical, is highly toxic to humans, attacking the liver and nervous system, and is sometimes found in counterfeit or poorly distilled drinks.
In São Paulo, several bars have been temporarily closed, and in Rio de Janeiro—so far spared—restaurants have issued statements to reassure their customers.