🔗 Share this article

British government has placed 11 more nations to its public advisory roster regarding the threats of methanol contamination from contaminated alcoholic drinks.

This expanded travel guidance now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following evidence showing "a worldwide rise in the frequency of confirmed occurrences" of toxic alcohol contamination.

Only last month, authorities had already placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing roster, in response to multiple high-profile incidents including the tragic death of 6 visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being advised that as little as minimal doses of toxic alcohol can result in permanent eye damage or loss of life within 12–48 hours.

Exactly what is Industrial Alcohol and How is it Utilized?

Industrial alcohol is a toxic chemical often used in coolant, car cleaning liquid, and paint solvent. It is not meant for human consumption.

While it is generated during the production of alcoholic drinks, licensed producers lower it to low, safe levels for ingestion through the refining procedure.

Yet in various destinations, it is illegally mixed into beverages to save money, and because it is flavorless and smell-free, it is impossible to detect.

Authorities' Advice for Tourists

Foreign Office official Hamish Falconer emphasized that all travellers should know the indicators of toxic alcohol poisoning.

"When you are having drinks in foreign countries, stick to trusted places and avoid local brews or complimentary drinks," Falconer said.

"Should anything feels off, like a hangover that's much more severe than typical or vision problems – get medical help immediately."

The full list of destinations noted as posing a risk of methanol poisoning now includes: Brazil, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Kenya, Laos, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, and Vietnam.

Essential Facts About Methanol Toxicity

• Toxic alcohol is a poisonous substance not meant for human consumption.
• As little as tiny quantities can result in vision loss or fatality.
• Signs may include intense headache, vomiting, abdominal pain, lightheadedness, and blurred eyesight.
• Travellers are recommended to strictly consume sealed drinks from trusted establishments.
• Should you believe methanol contamination, seek medical help right away.