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Bathtub Vodka

Posted on November 25, 2008 by Natalie McGarry
Bathtub vodka. Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/riotjane/2381429958/sizes/s/">riot jane (flickr)</a>
Bathtub vodka. Photo: riot jane (flickr)

Has the global financial crisis caused an increase in alcohol poisoning in Russia?

As incomes have declined or in some cases, disappeared, many Russians have cut down on vodka — Russia's alcoholic drink of choice. Russia's per capita intake is four gallons a year. Last month, vodka makers cut production by 15 percent to reflect the drop in sales.

In response, some Russians have switched to cheap homemade alternatives, or “bathtub vodka” — with deadly consequences. Deaths due to alcohol poisoning rose 6 percent in September, according to Reuters.

Reuters also reports that Russians are taking extreme methods to satisfy their alcoholic thirst, drinking "cosmetics, perfumes and cleaning agents."

It's liquid foundation on the rocks, ladies. Bottoms up!

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