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Detran-SP statement brings new perspective on the breathalyzer law and reassures drivers about the impact of processed foods.
Recently, the Detran-SP issued a crucial statement that is causing a stir among drivers. breathalyzer law, known for being one of the most rigorous instruments in combating the combination of alcohol and driving, now there is a new nuance that deserves everyone's attention. The agency brought up a topic that had been causing panic: the possibility of testing positive on a breathalyzer after consuming foods that apparently contain alcohol, such as sliced bread.
Understand the controversy surrounding the breathalyzer law
In recent months, Many drivers were taken by surprise by the news that even the simple consumption of sliced bread could result in a breathalyzer test citation.. This information circulated widely on social media, creating real terror among those who usually use this basic food on a daily basis. The reason behind this fear is that some industrial breads contain preservatives sprayed with alcohol to increase their shelf life., which could, in theory, result in a false positive on the breathalyzer.
The positioning of Detran-SP
Faced with this alarming situation, Detran-SP decided to intervene and clarify the facts. In its statement, the The agency made it clear that there is no risk of being fined for drivers who have consumed food such as sliced bread before driving.. Detran-SP highlighted that the presence of alcohol in these products is minimal and, in a matter of minutes, it is no longer detectable by the device. In other words, drivers can breathe a sigh of relief.
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This measure was important to put an end to the panic that had spread and to prevent drivers from being unfairly penalized. Detran-SP reinforced that the breathalyzer law remains focused on detecting significant levels of alcohol in the blood, that really compromise road safety, and not to punish those who eat food with residual traces of ethanol.
Technical details and experts
To better understand this issue, the newspaper TV Foco consulted experts in traffic medicine and nutrology. Alysson Coimbra, a traffic doctor and member of the National Road Safety Observatory, explains that the mouth can actually have traces of alcohol after consuming these foods, but that these traces dissipate in about 10 to 15 minutes. Nutritionist Eline de Almeida Soriano, from the Brazilian Association of Nutrition, reinforces that the alcohol present in the bread is superficial and does not impact the level of alcohol in the blood.
The preservatives used in sliced bread are diluted in alcohol before being sprinkled on the product, which is a common practice in the food industry to prevent mold from forming. However, This alcohol evaporates almost completely and, even if there are residues left, they are insignificant enough to cause any drunkenness or even a positive breathalyzer test.
Detran-SP took the opportunity to warn about the dangers of misinformation
O Detran-SP took the opportunity to warn about the dangers of misinformation. According to Marcelo Reis, coordinator of the Integrated Safe Driving Operation (ODSI) in São Paulo, the inspection operations are well accepted by the population, but rumors like this can harm the public perception of these essential actions for road safety. He highlighted that the breathalyzer law is an important tool to raise awareness and prevent accidents, and that confusion like this can hinder this work.
Clear and fact-based communication
Finally, the statement from Detran-SP highlighted the importance of clear, fact-based communication. The agency is committed to continuing to educate drivers about the breathalyzer law and ensuring that everyone understands the real dangers of driving under the influence. It also reinforced the need to better regulate the information on the packaging of foods that undergo fermentation processes.
With around 34 million registered vehicles and more than 25 million licensed drivers in São Paulo, Detran-SP remains committed to maintaining traffic safety and providing quality services to the population. However, it is essential that drivers are alert and seek correct information to avoid unnecessary panic and ensure safe and responsible driving.
And you, have you ever heard of this myth about sliced bread and the breathalyzer? Tell us in the comments if you have ever been through a similar situation or if you felt more at ease with the explanations from Detran-SP.
