25-07-2025
Glasgow warned after deadly counterfeit vodka discovered
Food Standards Scotland (FSS) shared the public health notice after officers seized this week, which confirmed the presence of the chemical isopropyl, a substance which can be harmful if consumed.
Even in small amounts, isopropyl can be dangerous. Symptoms of poisoning include abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, confusion, slow breathing, and in severe cases, coma or death.
It was sold in 35cl bottles (commonly known as half bottles) and fraudulently labelled as Glen's.
The office warned that, when opened, the counterfeit liquor may have a strange smell and taste differently from genuine vodka, and therefore should not be drunk.
READ NEXT: How to spot deadly fake 'Glen's' vodka found in Glasgow shops
(Image: Supplied)
Glasgow warned after deadly counterfeit vodka discovered (Image: Supplied) They reminded buyers: "Every genuine bottle of Glen's vodka has a laser etched lot code applied to the bottle between the rear label and the base of the bottle.
"They will also have the following markings on the base of the bottle - the highlighted three identifiers will not vary (position or detail)."
The scale of distribution of counterfeit products is still unknown and officers noted that if you believe you may have consumed alcohol that has a strong smell and a very different taste to normal and are showing any of the symptoms described, please contact the NHS 24 on 111 immediately. If you have severe symptoms, call 999.
If you believe you may have purchased this counterfeit vodka by detecting a strong smell or taste that is different from normal, do not drink it or dispose of it, but please contact FSS Scottish Food Crime and Incidents Unit – foodcrime@ – for further advice.
Alternatively, please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 028 7926 or online, if you have any information on this counterfeit alcohol.
