United Kingdom expands its travel alert to warn citizens about counterfeit alcohol risks in eight new countries after rising methanol poisoning cases abroad.
The United Kingdom has expanded its travel advisory to include eight additional countries amid growing concern over methanol poisoning from counterfeit or tainted alcoholic drinks.
Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda were added to the Foreign Office’s warning list following incidents involving British travelers. The update follows several high-profile poisoning cases in recent years, including the deaths of six tourists in Laos in 2024.
The alert, which previously covered Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Turkey, Costa Rica, and Fiji, urges Britons to be cautious when consuming alcohol abroad. Travelers are advised to buy only sealed drinks from licensed venues and avoid homemade alcohol, pre-mixed cocktails, or drinks served in buckets or jugs.
Methanol — a toxic industrial chemical commonly found in antifreeze and cleaning products — can cause severe illness or death if consumed. Unscrupulous vendors have been known to mix it with spirits to increase profit margins, often leaving tourists unaware of the danger.
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Symptoms of methanol poisoning can resemble those of ordinary alcohol intoxication, including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. However, experts warn that distinct signs such as blurred vision and confusion may appear 12 to 48 hours after drinking. The Foreign Office urges travelers who experience such symptoms to seek emergency medical attention immediately.
The government has launched a new public awareness campaign, updating online travel advice to help Britons recognize the warning signs and reduce risk.
The dangers were underscored by the 2024 death of Simone White, a 28-year-old British traveler who unknowingly consumed methanol-laced alcohol in Laos. Her case has become emblematic of the ongoing risks faced by tourists.
Campaigners and victims’ families recently met lawmakers and travel industry representatives in London, calling for clearer warnings and stronger safeguards for holidaymakers. Among them was Calum Macdonald, a 23-year-old backpacker who was left permanently blind after drinking contaminated alcohol in Vang Vieng, Laos.
“Methanol poisoning can kill,” said Hamish Falconer, the Foreign Office minister for consular and crisis affairs. “Early symptoms mimic ordinary alcohol poisoning, and by the time travelers realize the danger, it can be too late.”
He added, “No family should endure what these campaigners’ families have suffered. Their determination has been crucial in driving these vital updates.”
