Warning: Original Vodka Russia Export - Made in Belgium

The Food Standards Agency have issued an urgent warning in respect of bottles of vodka labelled Original Vodka Russia Export - Made in Belgium and which could be contaminated with high levels of methanol.

The Food Standards Agency is advising anyone who may have a bottle, not to drink it.

The origin of the vodka is not yet known, nor is it known where the vodka might be on sale. Anyone who has a bottle or who sees it on sale should contact the Environmental Health Directorate immediately on 020 7341 5282. 

This product must not be sold. If you have any on your shelves remove it immediately and contact this office.
If anyone offers you this product do not purchase it and inform Environmental Health at the above office.

The quantity of methanol found should not be present in vodka and, if consumed, could cause serious harm to health. 

Effects of methanol poisoning include

• abdominal pain
• drowsiness and dizziness
• blurred vision leading to blindness
• breathing difficulties

Symptoms of methanol poisoning may not show until several hours after drinking it. Anyone who thinks they may have drunk this product should seek immediate medical advice.

For further details see the Food Standards Agency website www.food.gov.uk.

For further information email email food.hygiene@rbkc.gov.uk.