High Proof Alcoholic Drinks
College drinking has been a problem on and off campus’ for years. Whether a college student is of legal age or still underage many college students throw responsible drinking out the window and try to find the quickest, cheapest, and fastest ways to get drunk. High proof alcoholic drinks are most commonly sold to the college-aged population. Binge drinking is extremely dangerous and often leads to alcohol poisoning. When combining high proof alcoholic drinks with binge drinking obviously the risk is even greater. If you are a parent of a college student, work in a college setting, or attend college you may want to be on the look out for the following high proof alcoholic drinks.
1. Everclear/Diesel
Brand names Everclear and Diesel are 190 proof (95 percent) pure grain alcohol. Grain alcohol is easily disguisable because it is colorless and tasteless. Everclear has been linked to date-rape drugs such as Rohypnol. It can be used to spike someone’s drink without their knowledge, making them vulnerable to sexual assault or other crimes. Many states and counties have banned the sale of Diesel and Everclear at 190 proof. However, Everclear does have a less potent 151 proof alcoholic drink that is still being sold in some stores. Grain alcohol is illegal in New York State however; Everclear is used for other purposes. Medical and industrial companies use Everclear as a cleaning solvent. States like Pennsylvania are requiring hospitals and businesses to have a permit in order to purchase Everclear for cleaning purposes.
2. Absinthe
Absinthe, often called the Green Fairy, in an anise flavored alcohol made from the herbs anise, fennel, and wormwood. Absinthe contains 70 percent alcohol (140 proof). Absinthe is also said to cause hallucinations although this has been greatly debated. Absinthe was banned in the United States by 1912 but is making a comeback. Movies such as Moulin Rouge, Van Helsing and probably the most popular among college students, Eurotrip, have increased curiosity in the drink Absinthe. Years of research have shown that the chemical thujone, which blocks neurotransmitters that control nerve impulse and is said to cause hallucinations, is in such small amounts that it would not have significant effects on the brain. However, bottles of Absinthe sold in the United States have to be classified as thujone-free, containing less than 10 parts per million. According to the British Medical Journal that is the same amount the old Absinthe contained but others say modern Absinthe is “nothing like the old stuff”. Absinthe has been said to cause epilepsy and delusions although research has not proved this.
3. Bacardi 151
Bacardi 151 has an alcohol content of 75.5%. Most rum contains 35% – 40%. Bacardi 151 is flammable due to its high alcohol concentration. It is often used in flaming beverages which can increase the risk of danger. Bacardi 151 became available in the United State in 1995 and has since gained much popularity.
4. Devil Springs
Devil Springs is 160 proof (80 percent) vodka. The expression, “Devil Springs could start your car” is often heard by people who have tried the vodka. The expression isn’t that far off. It contains 80% ethanol. E80 Gasoline contains 80% ethanol and 20% gasoline. That should make a person stop and think about what they are ingesting into their body.
The above alcoholic drinks are some of the most dangerous due to their high alcohol concentration but keep in mind that alcohol poisoning and increased risk taking can occur from drinking any type of alcohol in excess. The decision to drink any type of alcohol should be a well educated and responsible one.
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