Paulista Association of Bars and Restaurants reported a drop in the consumption of spirits, with consumers opting for beers and wines
The city of São Paulo faces a severe public health crisis with confirmation of the second death by intoxication, raising to 14 the number of cases confirmed in the state. The victims, two men 46 and 54, were residents of the state capital. The situation is alarming, with more than 160 suspicious cases being investigated by the Health Department. In response to this emergency, a police task force was mobilized to identify and seize, resulting in 41 arrests in various cities, including Diadema and Santo André. In addition, 11 establishments have been banned and 6,900 bottles seized since the beginning of operations.
The governor of São Paulo, pointed out that the smuggling of drinks is a structural problem in Brazil, which is closely linked to inadequate surveillance and the flawed monitoring system. He stressed the ease with counterfeits get bottles for tampering and the responsibility of traders who buy products without invoice. Although arrests made so far do not indicate a direct connection, the governor has ensured that any organized crime involvement will be strictly investigated and punished.
The Ministry of Health, under the leadership, is closely monitoring the cases and has reinforced the importance of immediate notification of clinical suspicions. To face the crisis, the ministry has acquired more than 12,000 pharmaceutical ethanol ampoules and 2,500 hunger units for treatment, distributing them to toxicology reference centers. Anvisa also guided state and municipal managers on manipulation pharmacies capable of producing pharmaceutical ethanol. Padilha assured that treatments are effective and recognized by the international medical community, offering hope for those affected.
Meanwhile, the crisis is already impacting the beverage sector. The Paulista Association of Bars and Restaurants reported a drop in the consumption of spirits, with consumers opting for beers and wines instead of potentially adulterated drinks. The association emphasized the importance of acquiring reliable sources drinks and the need for effective inspection to combat tampering.
*With information from Camila Yunes
