Fake alcohol claims 15 lives in Istanbul: How to stay safe from poisoning

The weeks leading up to the New Year have seen a sharp increase in counterfeit/fake alcohol poisonings in Türkiye.

• 55 cases of methanol poisoning and 15 fatalities have been reported in Istanbul alone

• 28 individuals are still hospitalized, while 12 others have been discharged after receiving treatment

Authorities identified the source of the poisonous alcohol as unlicensed production sites referred to as “bootleg” operations.

• Efforts to curb these incidents have led to a series of police operations in the Istanbul districts of Sisli, Fatih, Umraniye, and Bakirkoy
• Operations have resulted in the detention of 19 suspects, 8 of which have been jailed while 6 were released under judicial control

This year has already seen a significant rise in counterfeit/fake alcohol confiscation, with 326 tons of ethyl alcohol seized by law enforcement as of December 5—four times the amount seized in 2023.

Experts warn: Counterfeit alcohol detection is nearly impossible without lab tests

Experts emphasize the challenges consumers face in distinguishing between legitimate and fake alcohol.

According to Prof. Dr. Ahmet Aydin from Yeditepe University, counterfeit alcohol often contains methanol, a highly toxic substance used as a cheaper alternative to ethyl alcohol. Methanol consumption can cause severe health complications, including permanent blindness and death.

“Counterfeit alcohol cannot be identified by taste, smell, or appearance,” said Prof. Aydin. “Only chemical testing can determine if alcohol contains methanol.” He also stressed that even home-brewed alcohol poses risks since the type of alcohol used—ethyl or methanol—may be unknown.

The initial symptoms of methanol poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, often mimic those of general alcohol intoxication.

However, within 6–24 hours, symptoms like blurred vision, severe abdominal pain, and neurological damage can escalate, potentially leading to coma or death. Just 30 milliliters of methanol, equivalent to half a small glass, can be fatal.

Turkish authorities recommend safety measures to avoid fake alcohol

Given the growing risks, officials and industry representatives urge consumers to exercise caution. The following safety tips were shared to avoid fake alcohol:

• Purchase alcohol exclusively from licensed outlets monitored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
• Always inspect the bottle’s seal and bandroll (tax stamp)
• Use the Bandroll Product Tracking System (BUIS) mobile app to verify authenticity by scanning the QR code or entering the serial number
• Avoid unreasonably cheap alcohol, as price discrepancies often indicate counterfeiting

Bendevi Palandoken, head of the Turkish Confederation of Tradesmen and Craftsmen, stressed the importance of stricter regulations on industrial alcohol distribution.

He noted that counterfeit or fake alcohol not only endangers public health but also causes an estimated $287 million annual tax loss.

“Reducing access to industrial alcohol and imposing severe penalties on offenders are crucial steps,” Palandoken said.

Government, hospitals urged to prepare for potential surge in cases

Health professionals warn that methanol poisoning requires immediate medical intervention. Prof. Aydin stressed the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, which includes administering an antidote to counter methanol’s toxic effects.

“Emergency departments must maintain a sufficient antidote stock to manage potential poisoning cases,” he added.

Authorities and experts continue to stress public awareness and caution to prevent further tragedies from counterfeit alcohol as New Year celebrations approach.