Every year, countless lives are lost because of a hidden killer—spurious liquor. Sold in back alleys, unlicensed bars, or even disguised in branded bottles, this fake alcohol is more than just illegal; it’s deadly. While it promises the same kick at a fraction of the price, the real cost is often health, vision, or even life.

This blog aims to spread awareness about what spurious liquor is, why it’s so dangerous, and how we can protect ourselves and our communities.

What is Spurious Liquor?

Spurious liquor refers to alcohol that is illegally manufactured, diluted, or adulterated using harmful chemicals instead of proper distillation methods.
Commonly, methanol—a highly toxic industrial chemical—is used to increase strength cheaply, but it can cause blindness, kidney failure, or death.

Why is it So Dangerous?

Unlike regulated alcoholic beverages, spurious liquor:

• Contains toxic chemicals like methanol, battery acid, or varnish solvent.

• Is often produced in unhygienic, unsafe conditions.

• Has no quality checks or safety measures.

• Can cause:

  • Severe stomach pain

  • Vomiting and dizziness

  • Loss of vision

  • Organ damage

  • Death within hours

The Social Impact

Spurious liquor isn’t just an individual health issue—it’s a community crisis.

• Families lose breadwinners overnight.

• Communities suffer reputational and economic harm.

• Medical systems face avoidable emergency cases.

• Criminal networks profit while public health declines.

Why Do People Still Buy It?

The main reasons are:

• Lower cost compared to branded alcohol.

• Easy availability in unregulated markets.

• Lack of awareness about the dangers.

• Addiction driving desperate decisions.

Laws and Government Action

Most countries, including India, have strict laws under Excise Acts and IPC Sections to punish manufacturing, selling, or consuming spurious liquor.
Enforcement measures include:

• Raids on illegal distilleries.

• Public awareness campaigns.

• Seizures of fake branded bottles.

• Harsh prison sentences for offenders.

How to Identify Spurious Liquor

While not foolproof, here are warning signs:

• Suspiciously low price.

• No proper seal or cap.

• Poor label quality or spelling errors.

• Unusual smell, taste, or cloudiness.

• No batch number or manufacturing details.

What to Do if You Suspect Spurious Liquor

1. Stop drinking immediately.

2. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

3. Keep the bottle for lab testing.

4. Inform local authorities to prevent further harm.

Prevention: Everyone’s Responsibility

• Buy alcohol only from licensed shops.

• Check packaging carefully.

• Educate friends and family about the risks.

• Support government awareness campaigns.

• Report suspicious sales to the police.