Methanol poisoning, inflation and family debt are cited as the main reasons for the decline in consumption outside the home
Sales in bars and restaurants registered a drop of 4.9% in September, according to a survey commissioned by the Brazilian Association of Bars and Restaurants (Abrasel). The negative result is attributed to a combination of factors, including inflation, high family debt and, mainly, the fear generated by recent cases of poisoning from adulterated alcoholic beverages.
According to Abrasel, the impact of contamination cases, which intensified in September, had a direct impact on consumer confidence. The president of the association, Paulo Solmucci, highlighted that the combination of high inflation and news about adulterated drinks contributed significantly to the retraction. “The population is consuming less, whether in meals or alcoholic beverages outside the home,” he stated.
The annual analysis also shows a challenging scenario, with an accumulated drop of 3.9% in sales. Guilherme Freitas, economist and researcher at Stone — the company that carried out the survey — explained that, although the unemployment rate is low, the high level of debt of Brazilian families limits purchasing power and consumption in establishments.
Balance of methanol poisoning
The Ministry of Health updated data on cases of methanol poisoning in alcoholic beverages. To date, 133 notifications have been registered across the country. Of this total:
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46 cases were confirmedwith the highest concentration in (38), followed by (4), (3) and (1).
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87 cases remain under investigation.
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10 deaths were confirmedeight in São Paulo and two in Pernambuco.
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528 suspected cases have already been ruled out after examinations.
*With information from Danúbia Braga
*Report produced with the help of AI
