Spalding: Takeaway Sells Fake Vodka

5 February 2013, 15:10 | Updated: 5 February 2013, 15:20

The owner of a Spalding takeaway has been prosecuted for selling fake vodka containing a toxic chemical.

41 year old Salaman Petlit, the licencee of the Zorba 3 takeaway in Winsover Road, has been fined more than £2,000 and has also been banned from selling alcohol anywhere in the UK.

He was found guilty of selling non duty paid and fake vodka at Spalding Magistrates Court on the 30th January.

Trading Standards officers raided the business last year, finding 29 bottles of illegal alcohol.

Forensic tests revealed the alcohol, pertaining to be vodka, contained a toxic chemical called Butanol which is commonly used in paint stripper.

They found the liquid was not vodka or any type of drinking alcohol, and no details of the supplier or evidence that duty had been paid were present.

The tests also found the liquid was not fit for human consumption.

Ian Newell, Safer Communities Manager at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "This result should send out a clear message to other licensed premises to deter them from similar activities. 

Lincolnshire Safer Communities Trading Standards and Lincolnshire Police take illegal alcohol and tobacco incredibly seriously and are committed to working together to tackle this issue and will take appropriate enforcement action against those involved.

The public can be reassured that we are continuing to monitor the situation in Spalding and countywide to ensure their safety, but by being aware of the issues and being cautious when shopping, people can avoid buying potentially harmful, illegal products, and reduce the demand."

Lincolnshire Safer Communities is urging members of the public to contact the Trading Standards team on 01522 782341 if illegal activity is suspected.