São Paulo Cracks Down on Establishments Amidst Methanol Poisoning Outbreak
São Paulo, Brazil – As of October 6, 2025, eleven establishments across the state of São Paulo have been closed as authorities investigate an outbreak of methanol poisoning linked to alcoholic beverages. The closures follow inspections prompted by a surge in reported cases, with health officials confirming 16 cases of methanol poisoning nationwide, and a further 209 under investigation. São Paulo state accounts for the majority of notifications,with 192 reported,including 14 confirmed cases and 178 still being investigated.
The establishments shuttered include Lelê Adega and Los Hermanos Adega, both in Osasco; BELIBER DISTRIBUTOR (with four registrations revoked) in Beautiful View; Bbr Supermarket in bela Vista; FEC Alves Grocery and Adega; Bar and Restaurant Ministro in Jardins; villa Jardim in São Bernardo do Campo; Alley of Espeta in Itaim Bibi; empório santos in Cidade Dutra; and Brazil Excellance Commercial Distribuidora de Bebidas, also in São Bernardo do Campo. The Ministry of Health reports cases have been identified in 12 states – Goiás, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Pernambuco, Paraná, Rondônia, Sao Paulo, Piauí, Rio grande do Sul, Rio de Janeiro, paraíba and Ceará - and also the Federal District. Cases previously suspected in Bahia and Espírito Santo have been ruled out.
Several establishments have issued statements denying the sale of counterfeit drinks. Minor bar stated its beverages are sourced “from official suppliers, with invoice and guaranteed origin, from large distributors recognized in the market.” Bar Torres, in mooca, said they are cooperating with inspection agencies and purchase products from “longtime official distributors.” Villa Jardim acknowledged a recent health issue at their establishment linked to beverage consumption, but affirmed they obtain alcoholic beverages “in original condition and of reliable distributors.” Empório Santos stated,”We reaffirm that we have no involvement with tampered drinks,” while Alley of Espeta announced a temporary suspension of distillate sales following a judicial reopening.
Authorities attempted to contact Bebillar distributor and BBR Supermarket for comment, but both declined to speak. Brazil excellance Comercial Distribuidora de Beverage and FEC Alves Mercearia could not be reached for comment. The outbreak underscores growing concerns about the illicit production and distribution of adulterated alcohol, posing a notable public health risk.
