DANGEROUS fake vodka has been offered to business bosses in Colchester.

Pubs, clubs and bars and other on-licence premises are believed to have been offered the product wholesale which is labelled as Kalinska Imperial Vodka.

However experts from the Essex Trading Standards have tested it and found it contains significant levels of methanol.

Therefore it could be dangerous if it is consumed.

Extreme levels of methanol can cause bad nerve problems in the body, and even cause blindness.

Kalinska Imperial Vodka is a legitimate brand, but the products concerned have been confirmed as counterfeit.

Businesses have been warned the legitimate version of this product would only be sold via established wholesale outlets and would have a detailed cap.

Trading Standard officers have also identified other significant differences.

The product in the picture on the left is the counterfeit version and would make a consumer unwell if they were to drink it.

A spokesman for Trading Standards said: "Licensing authorities across Essex are aware of the issue.

"If businesses have any concerns about products that they have been offered for sale either by telephone or in person at their premises, they are asked to report it to trading.standards@essex.gov.uk

"Similarly, if consumers have any concerns then they can report the matter directly to the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506.

"Trading Standards officers are currently working with the local business community and the National Food Crime Unit to identify the wider supply chain and to protect consumers from any harm."