Could a bottle contain deadly poison? A new laser device answers without opening the cap

A new laser-based technology could allow officials, producers and consumers to look inside an alcohol bottle without opening it. Scientists say the method can identify dangerous counterfeit alcohol faster and more cheaply than earlier approaches.

The technology targets methanol poisoning, a danger that remains serious in some regions despite being relatively rare in countries with strict alcohol regulation. Cases from Laos to Turkey show how a cheap drink can become life-threatening when alcohol is contaminated.

Even a small amount of the wrong alcohol can cause blindness or death. The laser device is presented as a new way to confront that risk by screening bottles before they are opened.