Tragic Toll: Third Death from Methanol Poisoning in Brazil

Tue Oct 21 2025 02:19:58 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A 30-year-old woman succumbs to methanol poisoning in São Paulo, raising concerns about tainted drinks and public safety.

In Brazil's São Paulo state, a woman named Bruna Araújo de Souza has died from methanol poisoning, becoming the third fatality linked to contaminated alcoholic beverages. Following her hospitalization after consuming vodka mixed with peach juice, health authorities confirmed several other cases, prompting investigations and the closure of numerous establishments. Methanol, often found in industrial products, poses serious health risks, and people are urged to avoid unregulated drinks. The situation has drawn attention to public safety and awareness regarding alcohol consumption.

A 30-year-old woman has become the third person to die from methanol poisoning in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, as authorities investigate the source of the tainted drinks thought to be making people ill.

Bruna Araújo de Souza died after consuming a vodka drink at a bar over a week ago. It comes after health officials reported the deaths of two men, totaling 225 confirmed cases of methanol poisoning in Brazil, predominantly in São Paulo.

In response, at least 11 businesses have been closed and over 10,000 bottles of alcohol seized by authorities. While the cause of the contamination remains uncertain, officials are urging people to refrain from consuming unlabeled or suspiciously sealed drinks.

Methanol, commonly found in cleaning products and fuels, is highly toxic. Symptoms of its poisoning may mimic hangover effects, complicating early detection.

Ms. Souza was hospitalized in critical condition; tests revealed methanol in her system, as did her boyfriend. The two deceased men were also reported to have consumed contaminated alcohol.

Health Minister Alexandre Padilha remarked that this occurs at an unprecedented scale in Brazil, echoing concerns from past incidents of methanol outbreaks in the region. The public is being warned to exercise caution when consuming alcoholic beverages, particularly in unfamiliar settings.