A laser-based technology is able to detect toxic methanol hidden inside unopened spirit bottles, even through coloured glass.
Researchers at the University of St Andrews in Scotland and Australia’s Adelaide University have developed a laser system that uses Raman spectroscopy to read the unique chemical "fingerprint" of a liquid through its packaging. This enables it to identify dangerous methanol contamination in whisky and other spirits.
Methanol is a highly toxic, industrial alcohol. It is commonly found in antifreeze and paint thinners, but in some parts of the world, being cheaper, it is mixed with ‘real’ alcohol such as spirit-based drinks and cocktails. Often impossible to detect without opening the bottle and conducting laboratory tests, the risks of drinking even a small amount - 30ml - can be fatal.
The UK government, which has been running a methanol awareness campaign for travellers for a number of years, has placed 29 destinations on its warning list, including Indonesia...