Whisky pulled amid ‘antifreeze’ claims

Bottles of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky have been pulled from shelves in Finland, Sweden and Norway over claims it contains excessive levels of propylene glycol – a chemical found in antifreeze.

Finnish officials said that while the product is prepared in accordance with North American regulations, it does not meet the stricter regulations of the EU, as reported by FoxNews.

Propylene glycol is commonly used as a flavouring ingredient in soft drinks, sweeteners and some alcoholic beverages, and is also found in antifreeze.

According to the US Food and Drug Administration, the chemical can be consumed “over long periods of time and in substantial quantities without causing frank toxic effects.”

The amount used in North American Fireball, a flavored-liqueur made by Sazerac, is less than one eighth of the amount allowed by US FDA regulations, however a different formula is used in Europe to meet stricter guidelines.

Fireball has since issued a statement explaining that the breach in regulations was due to a mis-shipment of the North American recipe to Europe adding that it is “perfectly safe” to drink.

“Last week Sazerac, the makers of Fireball, was contacted by its European bottler regarding a small recipe-related compliance issue in Finland. The ingredient in question was propylene glycol (PG). PG is a regularly used and perfectly safe flavouring ingredient,” it said.

“PG has been used in more than 4,000 food, beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products for more than 50 years. Most people consume PG every day in soft drinks, sweeteners, some foods or alcoholic beverages.

“All Fireball formulas are absolutely safe to drink and the use of PG in Fireball creates no health risk whatsoever.

“There is no recall in North America. Fireball fans can continue to enjoy their favourite product as they always have.”

The company expects to have the European formula of Fireball back in stores within three weeks.