Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America warned consumers that ” not all countries have a well-regulated beverage alcohol system like the U.S.
During the pandemic, many vacation destinations closed breweries and distilleries because they were said to be “nonessential.” The result: “a thriving black market that has resulted in increased amounts of illicit alcohol entering these marketplaces. Recent incidents of Americans falling ill, and in some cases dying, have caused an increase in public awareness and media coverage as Americans emerging from COVID-19 lockdowns resume travel to these popular vacation destinations:”
This can result in wine and spirits containing toxic substances like methanol, jet fuel and various narcotics that can cause illness, organ failure or even death,” WSWA said.
Among the locations where this has become a problem:
- Mexico forced breweries to close, giving rise to a significant black market. Mexican officials said more than 100 people have died of tainted alcohol during the pandemic, a direct result of the brewery closures.
- Costa Rica officials thus far this year have inspected 464 sites, seized 1,164 products and reported 31 suspected cases resulting in 15 deaths. The U.S. State Department warns travelers that “Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health has advised any persons presenting health issues after consuming alcohol, such as severe vomiting, agitation, disorientation, blindness, or any other adverse reactions, to immediately call 911.”
- Dominican Republic officials last month reported 26 deaths due to adulterated, illegal alcohol and warned citizens that some bottles of recognized brands were found to have been refilled with product containing methanol.
It also offered consumers four tips to drinking safely overseas:
PLACE: Always purchase wine and spirits from a bar, restaurant or retailer in the main shopping or business district. Avoid remote or “off the beaten path” locations. When you walk into the liquor store, bar or restaurant, consider the mix of the other patrons you see. Seeing that both locals and tourists are shopping, dining or drinking is a sign that the establishment is serving responsibly.
PRODUCT: Stick with brands you recognize and avoid the ones you do not. And when possible, do not purchase mixed drinks.
PRICE: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be mindful of cheap, discount products.
PACKAGING: When ordering in a bar or restaurant, ask that your drink be made in front of you so you can watch the product be poured from its bottle. If possible, check the bottle for poor labeling, misspelled words, and torn labels and seals.
