DANGEROUS BY-PRODUCTS

Distilling does more than just increase the ethanol content of a spirit. It also removes harmful chemicals. Microbes present in the brewing process make an enzyme called pectinase, which breaks down the walls of plant cells and turns them into a chemical called methanol, another type of alcohol that’s highly toxic. Methanol poisoning makes people feel sick, sleepy and confused. It can cause permanent damage to the eyes and even death. Methanol is easy to remove during distillation because it boils at a lower temperature than ethanol. Vodka manufacturers ensure there’s no more than 100 milligrams per litre.

Care is taken throughout the distilling process to reduce methanol production