In an interview with CNN Behind the Scenesthe rapporteur of the Methanol PL, federal deputy Kiko Celeguim (PT-SP), presented measures to combat adulteration of food and drinks in Brazil. The project gained prominence after a series of deaths caused by the consumption of drinks adulterated with methanol. “It’s not just about transforming the crime into a heinous one, but about observing the difficulties that the police apparatus has in classifying the forger,” explained the deputy.
According to the rapporteur, the proposal provides for a new classification in the criminal code that will allow police authorities to classify counterfeiters only for possession of items intended for adulteration. The sentences will vary from 4 to 8 years, and may be classified as a heinous crime in cases that result in serious bodily injury or death.
The text also proposes changes to the solid waste law, making reverse logistics of single-use containers used for whiskey, vodka and gin mandatory. The measure will make the industry and the distribution chain responsible for , making its use in adulteration difficult.
One of the main innovations of the project is the creation of a national system. The mechanism will cover not only food and beverages, but also cigarettes, minerals and pesticides, aiming to combat smuggling and counterfeiting.
seeking to reestablish confidence in the beverage market, which recorded a significant drop in consumption after the incidents, affecting several sectors of the economy, such as hotels, bars and restaurants.
