Fears over fake Smirnoff containing anti-freeze

Thousands of bottles of fake Smirnoff vodka containing anti-freeze, which could cause drinkers to go blind, are feared to be circulating in the UK.

Thousands of bottles of fake vodka are feared to be circulating in Derbyshire

It comes after trading standards revealed that hundreds of empty anti-freeze containers were discovered in a secret “factory” in Derbyshire, UK, used to produce the illicit alcohol.

Approximately 20,000 empty bottles and equipment for filling them, plus plastic containers of anti-freeze were also uncovered during the raid by trading standards.

As a result, Steve Allen, a manager at trading standards for Derbyshire County Council, told the Derby Telegraph he feared “thousands” of fake vodka bottles labelled as Smirnoff could already be on sale.

“I’ve been in trading standards for 20 years and this is the most shocking case I’ve ever come across,” he said. “In terms of the number of bottles, the severity and sheer danger this can pose then there is no doubt.

“The liquid is something which should be used on windscreens when it’s cold – it’s screen wash. This can cause serious health risks and is very dangerous to people.

“People have had significant effects in the past including temporary blindness. It would not surprise me if there were reports of people going to hospital with this.”

If sold legally, the cost of the 20,000 bottles found in the raid last week would equate to approximately £28,000.

A spokesman for Diageo, the parent company of Smirnoff, said: “Anyone who is concerned about the taste or packaging of any Smirnoff product can call the Diageo consumer care helpline on 0845 601 4558.”