West Berkshire and Wokingham Trading Standards Service is warning that fake vodka may be in circulation in the area. This follows the seizure of just under 700 one-litre bottles of vodka from a premises in Woodley.

Initial analysis of the vodka, branded as Drop Vodka, revealed that it contained methanol, potentially breaching a number of pieces of food law. The product also contained chloroform, indicating contamination, and the alcohol content also was much lower than stated. This analysis has indicated the vodka is unfit for human consumption. 

Trading standards officers are now investigating the possible source of the vodka. In the meantime, members of the public are asked to contact their local trading standards service if they become suspicious or aware that counterfeit product is in circulation. 

Kevin Thompson, principal trading standards officer at West Berkshire Council, said: "We are very keen to hear from anyone who has concerns about potential counterfeit products. There are more and more examples of counterfeit spirits and other alcoholic drinks appearing on the market. As can be seen from these initial results, consumption could present a health risk to the public."