If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, you might want to double-check that drink before raising your glass. A serious travel warning has been issued for the country after reports surfaced of over 100 fatalities linked to counterfeit alcohol.
Countries like the UK, US, and Canada are urging caution, following disturbing news that tourists have been poisoned by alcohol laced with methanol.
Methanol, a toxic substance often used in fake alcohol as a cheaper alternative to ethanol, has been causing widespread panic in cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
While ethanol is safe for consumption, methanol can lead to poisoning, organ failure, and even death. It’s often added deliberately or created due to faulty distillation.
Since January 14th, Turkish authorities have reported 103 deaths and a surge in hospitalizations—around 150 people in Istanbul alone have sought treatment for suspected methanol poisoning.
The Ankara Governor’s Office has stepped up with urgent advisories, urging both locals and tourists to avoid purchasing alcohol from unauthorized sellers.
Their advice? Stick to licensed liquor stores, bars, and hotels. And definitely steer clear of homemade alcohol. The government is also pushing for more inspections of alcohol production sites.
Article updated 1 month ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
