Using Non-Denatured Alcohol for Party Drinks: Safety and Precautions
When planning a party, especially one that involves spiked drinks, it's crucial to understand the safety and legal implications of the alcohol you use. We recently received a query regarding the use of non-denatured alcohol to spike a fruit punch, particularly concerning the safety issues associated with 200-proof USP-grade ethanol. In this article, we will discuss the risks, safety measures, and alternatives to ensure a fun and safe party experience.
Understanding Non-Denatured Alcohol
Non-denatured alcohol, as opposed to denatured alcohol, is used in various applications but is not typically suitable for human consumption. The form of ethanol you mentioned, 200-proof USP-grade, is classified as anhydrous, which means it contains no water and is highly concentrated. Such grades of alcohol can be harmful due to harmful substances like benzene present during the purification process. Benzene is known to be carcinogenic, and exposure to it can cause various health issues.
Alternatives to Consider
While non-denatured alcohol like 200-proof USP-grade ethanol is technically harmless for ingestion, using it can be a bit of a waste. Neutral grain alcohol, which is practically just as safe and typically doesn't have any off-flavors, is a better alternative. This type of alcohol is more commonly used in cocktails and is generally considered safe for mixing.
Best Practices for Spiking Drinks
Not Over-Spiking the Drink
The main challenge lies in avoiding over-spike the punch. If you were to use 80-proof 40% alcohol vodka, you need to adjust the amount carefully. For example, adding 100ml of pure 200-proof ethanol to 1 litre of fruit punch would result in a very high alcohol by volume (ABV) content that could be dangerous. A safer approach would be to add 100ml of pure alcohol to 1 litre of punch, which would yield an ABV of around 9%, a level that is well within the safe range.
Precautions to Ensure Safety and Legal Compliances
There are several safety precautions you must take to ensure your partygoers stay safe and you don't run into legal trouble. Firstly, do not leave the spiked drink in any location where it is accessible to partygoers, especially minors or less experienced drinkers. This can lead to dangerous situations where individuals might consume a high amount of alcohol quickly, leading to serious health issues or even fatalities. Additionally, take care to avoid leaving any alcohol within reach of fire sources to prevent accidental fires. Furthermore, you should avoid spiked drinks if you plan to mix them with food or other non-drinking items.
Recommendations for the Next Party
While the immediate situation seems fine, MJM strongly recommends using plain vodka next time. Vodka is not only safer for consumption in high concentrations but also has a palatable taste, making it a better choice for spiked drinks. You don't want to take unnecessary risks with your partygoers' safety.
Conclusion
Spiking drinks can be a fun and engaging part of a party, but it's essential to understand the risks and take appropriate precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Choosing the right type of alcohol, careful dilution, and knowing the safety guidelines can help prevent accidents and ensure everyone enjoys the party without any worries.