Rum producers call for the eradication of bootleg alcohol in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Association of Rum Producers (Adopron) condemns the production and commercialization of bogus alcoholic beverages, which in the last twelve months has cost the lives of more than 300 people.
“We support the State and all the institutions and organizations that face this irresponsible and criminal practice. As a country, we need to eradicate the illegality in the alcoholic beverages market and guarantee that establishments sell products that comply with current regulations and laws”, says the press release issued by the entity.
It indicates that in addition to the lives it has a cost, illicit alcoholic beverages have more than once affected the international reputation of the Dominican Republic and of two key country brands for the economy, such as tourism and rum.
Adopron explains that, according to statements from the Ministry of Public Health, following the death of more than 270 people from intoxication, laboratory tests confirmed that the adulterated drinks consumed contained a methanol concentration of more than 50%.
“Concentrations above that level is not produced in the country, nor are they generated in the clandestine or industrial manufacturing processes of alcoholic beverages, so it follows that their origin is smuggling or imports of methanol or ethyl alcohol denatured with methanol, which is then diverted to the manufacture of products that are lethal”, Adopron cites in the statement.
They explain that methanol is alcohol not suitable for human consumption that is only used in the industry for solvents, disinfectants, varnishes, and paints, among other products. He adds that the manufacture of drinks with this component is a criminal act that must be punished with the full weight of the law.
In addition to the seizures, closure of illegal factories, places of sale, and the submission to a justice of those responsible for these practices, Adopron considers that it is necessary to apply strict control mechanisms in the importation and use of methanol, ethyl alcohol denatured with methanol, and the other alcohols used as raw material.
It also supports the “Traffic” project of the General Directorate of Internal Taxes (DGII) so that consumers can check, through a stamp placed on each bottle and the Review Me App, if the products are authentic or counterfeit.
Adopron is a business organization formed by industries recognized nationally and internationally for the manufacture of beverages following strict quality standards, with processes based on state-of-the-art technology that guarantee safety and reliability to consumers.