Powdered Alcohol Stirring Up Controversy In Md.
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- No powdered alcohol in Maryland. Maryland's comptroller, health care leaders and the alcohol industry all join forces to keep the potentially dangerous product off the market.
Tracey Leong explains why this substance is being banned.
The health and alcohol industries say it's not only dangerous, but it's potentially lethal if abused.
Powdered alcohol is stirring up controversy in Maryland.
"This product will never ever be on the shelves of retailers in the state of Maryland," said Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot.
Palcohol is a powder that you can mix with any liquid. It's up to 12 percent alcohol by volume.
"This product causes sleepiness, disorientation, loss of memory, coma and even death. It's addictive. It could be sneaked into schools, parks, stadiums and other people's food and drink," said Dr. Leana Wen, Baltimore City Health Commissioner.
Public health leaders are taking a stand with Maryland's comptroller to ban the dangerous substance.
"This is a product that violates common sense," said Franchot.
Liquor stores are standing firmly behind the comptroller, saying they never want to see it on their shelves.
"The alcohol we have here is something somebody took the time to create and produce and really focus on the flavors, the textures, the quality of the wines and the spirits. Palcohol is just a mass produced chemical," said Patrick McKee, beverage consultant.
And for consumers, there's mixed reaction on the Palcohol ban,
"They should ban it anywhere. I don't care what state. It's another really dumb idea," said Wayne Gallatin.
"Let the consumer make an informed judgment as to what they want to buy and how they want to consume it," said Nelson Ormsby.
"Don't want to have nothing to do with it. Don't want it. Ban it. That's good because the kids will abuse it," said Curtis Lambert.
While it is banned in Maryland, lawmakers are working on legislation to make it illegal. Maryland could become the sixth state to outlaw the sale and distribution of Palcohol.
In early March, Palcohol became legal for distribution and sale under federal law.
