Overview

• São Paulo’s Civil Police dismantled a clandestine beverage operation in São Bernardo do Campo tied to two fatal intoxications, arresting the alleged owner and seizing materials for forensic analysis.
• Investigators say the network used fuel ethanol reportedly adulterated with methanol to produce illicit vodka, with lab reports finding 14.6% to 45.1% methanol in eight of nine bottles seized at a targeted bar.
• State officials report 23 confirmed methanol intoxications and five deaths in São Paulo, with scores more cases under investigation and hundreds of suspected notifications across Brazil being reviewed.
• The state’s forensic agency (SPTC) introduced a rapid triage protocol using statistical sampling, seal and label checks, portable screening, and gas chromatography, enabling quicker interdictions and the suspension of business registrations.
• The Health Ministry received 2,500 doses of the antidote fomepizole for nationwide distribution and continues supplying pharmaceutical ethanol, while advising the public to avoid alcoholic beverages and seek urgent care if symptoms appear.