Vodka containing illegally high levels of methanol has been found on sale in Brighton and Hove by trading standards officers.
Admiral Petrov vodka with a lot code on the rear label of L1031/29 has been found containing nearly ten times the legal maximum levels of methanol.
The chemical, also known as wood alcohol, is found in antifreeze, used as a solvent and is an ingredient in methylated spirits (meths).
Trading standards officers said that while the methanol levels were unusually high, there should not be any harmful effects from drinking the vodka.
But anybody who has already bought the brand is advised to dispose of it.
The Brighton and Hove City Council cabinet member for public safety Ben Duncan said: “These bottles look professionally produced rather than home-made.
Explosion
“The recent explosion in Lincolnshire tells us that production of illicit vodka is certainly an industry.
“At present we don’t know where this is coming from.
“The best protection is to buy well-known labels from reputable stores.”
Trading standards officers are working with Sussex Police and Revenue and Customs to tackle illegal and fake alcohol sales.
Joint visits to licensed premises are being organised to seize any illegal alcohol found.
Businesses risk prosecution, fines, loss of personal licences and criminal records.
Premises licences can also be reviewed by the council and revoked.
Trading standards and Sussex Police have already sought reviews of premises licences after discovering counterfeit and smuggled alcohol.
Some licences have been revoked.
Any businesses with Admiral Petrov vodka in stock are advised to contact trading standards via Consumer Direct for further advice.
Anyone concerned that they may have bought or been offered Admiral Vodka or any other illegal alcohol should contact Consumer Direct on 0845 4040506.
The council said that officials were not naming the stores where the vodka was found for legal reasons.
