Illegal and counterfeit alcohol

Fake alcohol means drinks containing alcohol that are produced illegally. It’s typically made to look like well-known brands, and is often labelled as market-leading, low-to-medium priced vodkas and wine. 

Although the taste can seem right, the contents, strength and quality of fake alcohol can have serious adverse health effects.

Illegally-produced alcohol is never safe to drink. There’s no way to know:

• what chemicals have been added to it
• how it’s been made
• the percentage of alcohol in it

Drinking fake alcohol can lead to a wide range of symptoms. These could include nausea, blindness, and even death. We have no way of knowing how the alcohol has been produced and what is in it. Drinkaware has more information about the symptoms and risks of alcohol poisoning.

There are several ways to spot fake alcohol:

The price is too good to be true

The most obvious sign that a product isn’t what it says on the label is a very low price. It should set off an alarm bell immediately and you should ask yourself ‘why’.

Suspicious labelling

Check for poor-looking labels and spelling errors. These often indicate the product is fake.

Unfamiliar brand names

Beware of brand names you’ve never heard of. It’s always best to buy alcoholic drinks from retailers you know and trust.

Vodka and wine

Vodka and wine are the most commonly counterfeited alcoholic drinks. Vodka should look completely clear, with no particles or sediment visible in the bottle. Avoid any vodka products that aren’t completely clear.

Taste and smell

If the alcohol tastes or smells bad, don't drink it.

Broken seal

Check the cap is sealed properly.  If the seal is broken, don’t drink it. Even if it’s not illegal, it could have been tampered with.

Remember, if you’re in any doubt, the best advice is not to sell it.

If you see any products containing alcohol you think could be fake, report them anonymously.