Food Manifest 
Overview
The death toll in the suspected toddy adulteration case in Hyderabad rose to five on Thursday. Preliminary lab tests confirmed the presence of Alprazolam—a powerful sedative used to treat anxiety and panic disorders—in samples collected from three licensed depots in the Kukatpally area.
Excise Department Arrests Four in Connection with the Case
Excise officials have arrested four individuals linked to the toddy depots under investigation. Authorities believe the accused used Alprazolam to intensify the intoxicating effect of toddy. When mixed with the beverage, the sedative produces a faster and stronger ‘kick’ than naturally fermented toddy.
48 Hospitalised with Acute Gastric Symptoms
At least 48 people who consumed toddy from depots in and around Kukatpally have been admitted to hospitals across Hyderabad. Most victims suffered from acute vomiting, severe diarrhoea, and other gastric complications. “All those admitted, including the deceased, showed signs of gastric distress,” said a senior excise official. “This suggests Alprazolam was present, but likely in small quantities, as the symptoms don’t match those of an overdose.” Officials also suspect that contaminated water used in the toddy may have worsened the health impact. “We don’t yet have scientific confirmation, but we strongly suspect water contamination as a major contributing factor,” an official source added.
Repeated Use of Alprazolam in Toddy Spiking
This incident follows a pattern seen in previous adulteration cases across Hyderabad and other regions, where forensic investigations frequently detected Alprazolam in spiked toddy. Other commonly used chemicals include Chloral Hydrate, Diazepam, urea, and artificial sweeteners.
Alprazolam is classified as a Schedule H1 drug in India and cannot be sold without a prescription. Despite this restriction, even small amounts of the drug—whether in powdered or crushed tablet form—can be used to spike large volumes of toddy, making it a popular choice for illegal enhancement.
Source: The Times of India
