People who often drink alcohol know that there are many stores that specialize in selling bulk liquor. Bulk liquor is usually brewed by vendors using their own grains or mixed with edible alcohol. This type of alcohol is cheaper because it is not packaged. However, most bulk liquors are actually fake, and drinking them can cause great harm to the human body. Many consumers unfortunately fall victim to these "genuine but fake" liquors because most of them are labeled with the phrase "one fake, ten compensated."
The dangers of fake liquor
The main component of fake liquor is methanol, but methanol and ethanol are not easily distinguishable in terms of color or smell. However, methanol is much more toxic than ethanol. Therefore, when a large amount of methanol is ingested, people will experience symptoms of poisoning, and with a higher intake, death can occur. In order to increase profits, merchants use methanol to increase the concentration of the liquor. Even though they know it is illegal, some people still take the risk due to their blinded by self-interest. The result is the proliferation of fake liquor, and unfortunate consumers.
How to identify fake liquor
From numerous cases, it is evident that fake liquor still exists in the market. It is necessary for ordinary people to raise their awareness of identifying fake liquor. Below, Minfukang will provide some information and hopes that everyone can pay attention to this issue.
1. Identify by bottle cap
Most of China's liquor uses aluminum bottle caps, and they are tightly sealed, so there is no leakage. Additionally, the printing on the bottle cap is clear. If you find that the printing on the bottle is blurry or there is leakage, be cautious as it may be fake liquor.
2. Smell the difference
Put some liquor in the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. If the smell is fragrant, then it is good liquor. If it emits bitterness or other odors, it should be taken note of.
3. Different clarity between real and fake liquor
Real liquor has excellent clarity, but fake liquor does not. It may appear cloudy with sediment, or even have suspended particles.
4. Oil test
Drop a drop of oil into the liquor. If it is real liquor, the oil will quickly spread and sink; if it is fake liquor, the oil will spread slowly and sink.
5. Observe the producer, brand label, and packaging
This is the most important point for consumers because many liquors have external packaging. When it is impossible to open and distinguish, we must rely on the packaging for identification. Pay attention to labels with manufacturer's information, cooperative factory information, as these may be cases of false advertising. If there are missing or incomplete details on the label, manufacturer, or quality certificate, it should also be noted.
Minfukang reminds everyone not to buy bulk fake liquor just for the sake of cheapness. The probability of fake liquor is higher for these bulk liquors, and ordinary consumers may not truly understand how to differentiate. Therefore, from a health perspective, in order to protect oneself, it is best to stay away from bulk liquor and reduce the chances of drinking fake liquor.
