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The UK government has added eleven new destinations to its public warning register concerning the risks of industrial alcohol contamination from tainted alcoholic drinks.

This revised travel guidance now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda after reports of "a worldwide rise in the incidence of documented incidents" of toxic alcohol toxicity.

Only last month, officials had previously included Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current list, after several serious events such as the deadly death of 6 tourists in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being warned that as little as minimal doses of methanol can lead to permanent eye damage or loss of life within 12–48 hrs.

Exactly what is Toxic Alcohol and In what way is it Used?

Methanol is a poisonous industrial alcohol commonly utilized in coolant, car cleaning liquid, and thinner. It is not meant for drinking.

Although it is inherently formed during the production of spirits, reputable manufacturers reduce it to non-dangerous concentrations for human consumption through the purification method.

Yet in certain nations, it is surreptitiously added into spirits to cut costs, and as it is flavorless and smell-free, it is very difficult to notice.

Government Guidance for Travellers

Foreign Office minister the minister stated that every traveler should recognize the indicators of methanol toxicity.

"When you are having drinks in foreign countries, stick to well-known venues and avoid unlicensed drinks or free shots," the minister warned.

"If something seems unusual, like a fatigue that's much more severe than normal or sight issues – contact a doctor fast."

The complete register of nations identified as carrying a threat of methanol contamination currently features: 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.

Key Facts Regarding Toxic Alcohol Poisoning

• Industrial alcohol is a poisonous substance not meant for human consumption.
• As little as minimal doses can cause permanent eye damage or fatality.
• Signs may include severe hangover, sickness, stomach cramps, vertigo, and sight issues.
• Tourists are advised to exclusively have sealed alcohol from licensed vendors.
• If you suspect industrial alcohol poisoning, contact a doctor immediately.