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Three Confirmed Deaths and Dozens of Cases Under Investigation Show How Methanol Bootlegging Turns Fun Into a Life-Threatening Risk
The number of deaths from poisoning caused by methanol in adulterated beverages has risen to three in the state of São Paulo. The information was released by Folha de S.Paulo and confirmed by the City Hall of São Bernardo do Campo, in the metropolitan area. Two deaths occurred in the ABC municipality, and one was reported in the capital.
According to the city hall, the first victim was a 58-year-old man who was admitted to the Emergency Hospital and died on September 24. The second death, confirmed on Sunday (28), was of a 45-year-old man treated in a private hospital.
In total, the Sanitary Surveillance Center (CVS), an agency linked to the Health Department of the Tarcísio de Freitas government (Republicans), confirmed six cases of methanol poisoning in São Paulo. Additionally, ten other suspicious episodes are still being investigated in the capital, raising concerns among health authorities.
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What Is Methanol and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Methanol is an industrial chemical substance, unfit for human consumption, but often used criminally in the adulteration of alcoholic beverages. Even in small quantities, it can be fatal, as it initially causes symptoms similar to those of common alcohol—such as nausea, dizziness, and the sensation of intoxication—before progressing to severe complications that can lead to blindness and even death.
According to experts, the presence of methanol in beverages typically occurs in contexts of bootlegging. Often, the product is added to increase the alcohol content more cheaply, turning the drink into a real trap for unsuspecting consumers.
Despite this, it is still not possible to definitively state whether this was the cause of the recent cases in São Paulo. Dr. Camila Carbone Prado, an assistant at Ciatox de Campinas, highlighted that only a technical analysis of the seized bottles will clarify the origin of the contamination.
Reinforced Oversight and National Alert
On Saturday (27), the CVS confirmed that the deaths in São Bernardo do Campo and in the capital were among the six cases already identified since June. At the same time, municipalities in São Paulo began to reinforce oversight in bars, distributors, and other establishments suspected of selling contaminated products.
The National Secretariat for Drug Policies of the Ministry of Justice also issued a statement. In a note released on Friday (26), the agency reported that, in just 25 days, nine methanol poisonings were reported in São Paulo, according to notifications made to the Rapid Alert System (SAR). Initially, the ministry had not confirmed any deaths, but the weekend update brought a new scenario of concern.
Authorities Reinforce Recommendations for the Population
In light of the seriousness of the situation, health authorities reiterate the alert: it is essential to purchase alcoholic beverages only from trusted places and always check for authenticity seals. Adulterated products, besides being illegal, can pose a direct threat to life.
The Ciatox de Campinas, a reference in the diagnosis and treatment of poisonings, warns that the response time is crucial. If there is a suspicion of consuming contaminated beverages, symptoms should not be ignored. Seeking immediate medical attention can save lives, as methanol is rapidly absorbed by the body.
As investigations continue, oversight remains in bars, distributors, and informal businesses that may be involved. The case underscores the importance of preventive actions against counterfeit beverages, a problem that affects not only São Paulo but all of Brazil.
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