In the run up to the festive period, Food Standards Scotland (FSS) is urging both consumers and retailers to remain vigilant as counterfeit alcohol may pose a serious risk to public health and the integrity of Scotland’s licensed trade.
Counterfeit alcohol is not just a cheap imitation, it can contain dangerous chemicals such as industrial solvents, which are toxic and potentially lethal. These substances can cause severe illness, including nausea, dizziness, organ damage, and in extreme cases, death.
FSS stresses that the consequences of consuming fake alcohol can be immediate or delayed, making it a hidden and unpredictable danger. For consumers, the warning is clear: if a bottle looks suspicious, smells unusual, or tastes off, do not drink it.
Ron McNaughton, Head of the Food Crime and Incidents Unit at FSS said: “Selling counterfeit alcohol is not a victimless crime, it endangers lives and undermines legitimate businesses.
“Over the last couple of years, with the assistance of local authorities and Police Scotland, we have seized counterfeit alcohol which posed a serious risk to public health and a number of consumers became ill after drinking the product. As a result of this, a number of shopkeepers have lost their alcohol license and been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for consideration of criminal prosecution.
“In the run up to the festive period we want to remind consumers to be vigilant and also warn retailers that we will continue to take robust action against anyone found selling these products.”
Retailers are reminded of their legal responsibilities. Selling counterfeit alcohol is a criminal offence and can lead to severe penalties, including the loss of an alcohol licence and prosecution. FSS works closely with local authorities and the police to ensure that those who put public health at risk face strong enforcement action.
FSS advises all licensed premises to source stock only from reputable suppliers and to train staff to recognise the warning signs of fake products. Anyone who suspects they have consumed counterfeit alcohol should seek medical advice immediately and report concerns about the product to the local authority, FSS or via the Scottish Food Crime Hotline, which is operated in partnership with Crimestoppers.
For more information on how to spot counterfeit alcohol and report concerns -
- visit www.foodstandards.gov.scot,
- call the free and anonymous Scottish Food Crime Hotline on 0800 028 7926
- speak directly in confidence with one of the Food Crime Intelligence Officers by emailing foodcrime@fss.scot