Survey shows more intense vodka retraction after records of methanol poisoning cases
Sales of alcoholic beverages recorded expressive declines in the state of São Paulo last week, after the expansion of news about methanol poisoning.
The Ministry of Health On Saturday (4.out) that Brazil has 195 notifications related to methanol poisoning because of alcohol intake, 14 confirmed and 181 in investigation. São Paulo leads with 162 records.
Survey of the Research Company revealed by the newspaper shows a More than 35% reduction in purchases on September 25, compared to the same day of 2024. The retreat was about 25% on September 26 and 27, also compared to last year.
The study analyzed invoices issued in cellars, convenience stores, supermarkets and large self -service retailers in the state. The survey does not consider bars and restaurants.
According to the data, Vodca was the hardest hit category: sales fell 45% on Friday and 43% on Saturday (4.out), on the same base of annual comparison.
According to the 360 retail, smaller networks tend to feel stronger impact because they have less control of the origin of the products. This week’s numbers will still be consolidated and may indicate a new retraction in consumption.
What is methanol?
Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol (CH₃OH), is a chemical highly toxic, volatile and flammable. It is a simple, colorless alcohol, with a odor similar to the common alcohol. In the past, it was called “Alcohol da Madeira”Because it is obtained from the distillation of logs. Today, it is produced on an industrial scale, especially from natural gas.
Liquid is used as a raw material for the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, resins, solvent e paint. It is also present in antifreeze, wiper e ink removers. In Brazil, one of the main applications is in the production of biodieselthrough transesterification.
Lethal dosage
The ingestion of 4 ml the 10 ml Methanol can cause irreversible damage, such as blindness, according to the CFQ (Federal Council of Chemistry). The advice warns that small doses already represent a real threat to life. Esteem that 30 ml of pure methanol can be lethal.
Effects on the body
The greatest danger of methanol intake appears in late effectssays the Federal Council of Chemistry. Methanol is metabolized in the body in Formaldehyde and Formic Acidthe latter responsible for causing metabolic acidosis “A serious blood pH imbalance.” Symptoms include:
- accelerated breathing;
- increased heart rate;
- Persistent abdominal pain;
- Damage to Visionthat can evolve into irreversible blindness.
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Diagnosis and Treatment
According to ABNO (Brazilian Association of Neuro-Oftalmology),.
In case of suspected ingestion or prolonged methanol contact, do not induce vomiting and forward the person urgently to the hospital. The sooner the diagnosis and treatment are performed, the lower the risk of death or serious sequelae.
Treatment is done with intravenous (homestepizole) drugs that, like ethanol, can inhibit methanol metabolism, avoiding formic acid formation, causing the most severe sequelae. The patient may undergo gastric wash and hemodialysis.
The risk of adulteration
According to the Federal Council of Chemistry, the problem arises when methanol is used criminal Alcoholic beverages.
Ingestion, inhalation or prolonged contact with methanol can cause immediate symptomssuch as nausea, dizziness, vomiting and depression of the central nervous system.
Prevention and Control
To avoid intoxications, it is recommended:
- verify the origin of the drinks purchased;
- distrust prices far below the market;
- Do not consume products without official registration.
The rigorous supervision of government agencies and periodic laboratory analyzes made by chemistry professionals are essential to prevent tragedies. They have the role of identifying contaminants, ensuring product quality and making the population aware of the risks of adulterated drink consumption.
