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The UK authorities has placed eleven new destinations to its public warning list about the risks of industrial alcohol toxicity from contaminated alcoholic drinks.

The revised travel guidance covers Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following what officials describe as "an international surge in the frequency of confirmed occurrences" of industrial alcohol contamination.

Just last month, officials had earlier included Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing list, in response to several serious events such as the tragic loss of six tourists in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being advised that as little as tiny quantities of methanol can lead to blindness or fatality within twelve to forty-eight hrs.

What is Industrial Alcohol and How is it Utilized?

Toxic alcohol is a harmful substance typically employed in antifreeze, windscreen washer fluid, and paint solvent. This substance is not designed for ingestion.

Although it is naturally produced during the creation of beverages, commercial firms reduce it to minimal, harmless amounts for human consumption through the distillation process.

But in various destinations, it is surreptitiously added into spirits to save money, and as it is tasteless and odourless, it is impossible to notice.

Authorities' Advice for Travelers

Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer said that each tourist should recognize the signs of industrial alcohol poisoning.

"When you are drinking spirits in foreign countries, stick to reputable establishments and steer clear of homemade alcohol or free shots," the minister advised.

"In case something feels off, like a fatigue that's way worse than normal or vision problems – get medical help right away."

The complete roster of nations identified as presenting a danger of methanol toxicity presently covers: 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 Contamination

• Toxic alcohol is a poisonous compound not meant for ingestion.
• Even minimal doses can cause permanent eye damage or loss of life.
• Symptoms may include unusual fatigue, nausea, belly ache, vertigo, and blurred eyesight.
• Travellers are urged to only drink sealed beverages from trusted establishments.
• In case you think toxic alcohol contamination, contact a doctor without delay.