Powdered alcohol is created when alcohol is absorbed by a sugar derivative called dextrin, and is later put through a process of encapsulation. This mechanism is very simple because certain sugar derivatives can be used to trap ethanol and produce powder. When the powder is stored in tightly sealed containers, it is able to stay in its powdery state until mixed with water or any other liquid. Dextrin, in particular, can hold up to 60% of its own mass in alcohol.
Powdered alcohol made news when it began being sold in Europe. The alarming fact is that it was generally and specifically marketed towards teenagers. Now that powdered alcohol is approved in the U.S., many people are concerned about the target group once again being adolescents. It is available in flavors that would typically appeal to the underage population, and the packaging is easily concealable, which makes this concern completely justifiable.
Worried public health and safety experts along with government officials have already pointed out that powdered alcohol products possess the potential to be used in risky manners, leading to dangerous alcohol effects. Here are a few examples:
The encapsulation process does not stop users from breaking the capsule and using the powder in ways it was not intended to be ingested or consumed.
Powdered alcohol products can also be snorted, inhaled, combined with other products that contain alcohol, or given to a person who is not aware of what they are ingesting. (This also raised concerns for law enforcement.)
Consumers can combine multiple packages of powdered alcohol together, or mix the alcoholic powder with liquid alcohol and energy drinks. The potential for abuse is factual, but scientists don’t currently have evidence of how strong or powerful these created beverages could be, or what the side effects and dangers are of these combinations.
It can potentially be easier for youth to obtain, use, and abuse powdered alcohol as opposed to liquor and other alcoholic beverages. The risk is even higher when the possible outcomes of powdered alcohol use are still not thoroughly explored.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions often are, through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. Although there may be some who believe they can handle this alone, rehabilitation centers and programs are an essential part of the fight to leave alcohol or drug dependency. Processes of aftercare and counseling can be a great asset in helping you identify every facet that steered you towards addiction, while also helping you build solid structures used to better juggle life without turning to substance abuse.
Safely monitored detoxification programs coupled with the residential treatment at Asana Recovery are offered in an inspirational, motivating environment. We are undoubtedly committed to ensuring your lifelong recovery, and pointing you in the direction of a more fulfilling future. We’re always glad to speak to you, so give us a call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our highly regarded alcohol and drug addiction treatment program today!
