Paraíba University Deploys Methanol Detection Kits to Safeguard 2026 Carnival

In response to a troubling rise in methanol poisoning cases across Brazil in 2025, the State University of Paraíba (UEPB) has taken proactive steps to protect Carnival revelers by distributing innovative methanol detection kits during the 2026 celebrations.

The alarming context stems from 2025 data released by the Ministry of Health, reporting 16 deaths and 62 confirmed cases of methanol intoxication nationwide. To address this critical public health risk, UEPB accelerated research and development of reliable, low-cost testing solutions capable of identifying methanol-contaminated alcoholic beverages quickly and efficiently.

Researcher David Fernandes, affiliated with the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), spearheaded this initiative. He revealed that three cutting-edge technologies were developed: a colorimetric test, an infrared test, and biodegradable straws designed to detect methanol presence. Notably, the colorimetric test is in active use during the 2026 Carnival by trained agents from Paraíba's Consumer Protection Program (Procon).

The colorimetric method requires only small samples of alcoholic drinks treated with reagents in a three-stage process, each lasting five minutes. A mobile application then analyzes the resulting color change to determine contamination levels. Initially designed to enhance quality control for cachaça production, the kits have proved adaptable for broader consumer safety.

Fernandes expressed his satisfaction: "It is rewarding to see academic research directly contribute to solving a real-life problem affecting people’s health and safety."

This campaign represents a significant collaboration between the UEPB and the Paraíba state government, emphasizing science’s vital role in public health protection during major cultural events like Carnival.