Tainted Alcohol Crisis: A Direct Threat to Lebanese Lives

Danger of consuming unknown or illicit alcohol

The Jeunesse Anti Drogue (JAD) association has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the increasing cases of poisoning caused by the consumption of alcohol contaminated with toxic methyl alcohol (methanol). These incidents have resulted in severe injuries and fatalities, and the situation is worsening across Lebanon and the region. In recent hours alone, nearly forty cases of methanol poisoning, including deaths and critical conditions, were reported in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

In Lebanon, this serious issue has long been concealed. Recently, a mass poisoning incident occurred at a prominent Lebanese restaurant, where multiple poisoning cases were recorded. These could have been prevented with stricter and more effective regulatory measures. Following this event, Jad formally alerted the relevant authorities.

Methanol is a highly dangerous chemical not fit for human consumption. When ingested, it triggers chemical reactions that damage body cells, increase blood acidity, and in many cases, lead to death.

JAD urgently calls on official bodies—starting with the General Directorate of Customs—to tighten control over all imported alcoholic beverages. The Ministry of Public Health, particularly its central laboratories, must ensure thorough testing of all products available in the market. Additionally, the Ministry of Economy and health inspectors are urged to intensify inspection campaigns to prevent the circulation of any beverages that do not meet health standards.

Lebanon is historically renowned for its traditional alcoholic beverages such as arak and wine. However, the country now faces significant challenges due to the spread of other types of alcohol, especially vodka, which is often contaminated or of unknown origin—commonly imported from countries like China and India—or of questionable quality.

Continuous public awareness campaigns about the dangers of consuming unknown or illicit alcohol are imperative. There must also be stricter enforcement of laws to protect the health and safety of Lebanese citizens. Amidst the current chaos in this sector, approximately half of the alcoholic products in the market circulate without proper licensing, while licensed sources require stringent quality control.

JAD concludes by urging all stakeholders to take this matter seriously to safeguard lives and ensure community health and safety.