FSAI issues warning on locally produced alcohol in Czech Republic

on 18/09/2012 12:13:11

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland is advising people travelling to the Czech Republic not to drink locally produced alcohol because of a number of fatal cases of methanol poisoning.

The FSAI said that anyone travelling there should also be aware that there is a ban on all products with alcohol content of 20% or more.

A total of 19 people have died and 36 people have been admitted to hospital in the Czech Republic after drinking illegally-produced alcohol that contains high levels of methanol.

"The FSAI is in contact with the Czech authorities who are investigating this incident and they have confirmed that it is confined to the Czech Republic only," the FSAI said in a statement.

"The FSAI will continue to liaise with the Czech Republic authorities and the European Commission and will update consumers as necessary."