Contaminated alcohol, 19 deaths in Istanbul

Recent reports in the local media have indicated that within the past 24 hours, 19 fatalities have occurred in Istanbul due to the consumption of beverages containing adulterated alcohol. Furthermore, 65 individuals have been reported to be in a state of intoxication, 43 of whom have been hospitalised. The adulterated product was purportedly sold by a single establishment, which the authorities have since closed. Such incidents are not uncommon in Turkey, with 24 deaths recorded in Istanbul alone in 2024 and 110 individuals requiring hospitalization. The contamination is suspected to be due to the addition of methanol, or methyl alcohol, a chemical commonly used in the plastics, paint, and fuel industries. This substance is highly toxic and can have devastating effects on the body. Even in minute quantities, it can lead to visual impairment and fatality, as well as permanent damage to the neurological system. Although it is a by-product of wine fermentation with ethanol, traces of this substance in wine are considered to be within the acceptable range, provided that the amount is between 0.15 and 0.60 ml per 100 ml. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages is carried out to increase the strength of the product, keeping costs low. Recent media reports have drawn attention to the prevalence of a practice involving the sale of adulterated alcohol in Turkey, citing high taxation on liquor as a primary contributing factor.