Warning Over Fake Vodka

22/08/08 - DARLINGTON Council’s Public Protection team is warning drinkers about a batch of fake Spar Imperial vodka which has been discovered.

Counterfeit bottles have been found in Northumberland and areas of north London.

The vodka contains excessive levels of methanol which could potentially cause a health risk.
Spar (UK) Ltd, the distributor of genuine Spar-brand Imperial vodka, has advised the Food
Standards Agency that the product is not genuine and Spar-brand Imperial vodka sold in Spar stores is not affected.

The label of the fake vodka is a copy of a pre-2007 Spar 70cl vodka label. The duty stamp on the label is fake and does not react under UV light. The text and images on the label are also blurred and there is no lot code on the neck of the counterfeit bottles.

Retailers and shoppers are asked to report any suspected counterfeit Spar-brand Imperial vodka to Darlington Council’s Public Protection Division by calling (01325) 388799 or e-mail publicprotection@darlington.gov.uk