During the festive season, holiday treats can sometimes bring unwanted surprises, particularly for drivers. A humorous yet informative demonstration by the Department of Transportation of Goiás (Detran-GO) uncovered the unexpected effect of eating panettone—a popular holiday cake—on breathalyzer tests, setting out to alert drivers about the potential consequences of indulging before hitting the road.
On December 16, 2024, Detran-GO showcased their findings through engaging video content, highlighting how the consumption of panettone could lead to positive results on breathalyzer tests. This initiative was driven by the imperative to raise public awareness of the dangers associated with drinking and driving, especially since 18 fatalities linked to intoxicated drivers have been reported in Goiás recently.
According to President Waldir Soares de Oliveira, the goal of the demonstration was straightforward: "Fez-se essa demonstração apenas para mostrar ao cidadão, e alertar do perigo da combinação álcool e direção.” Following the trend set earlier this year, the authority tested two varieties of panettone—one with fruits and chocolate. The breathalyzer results were startling, with readings of 0.12 mg/L and 0.23 mg/L after consuming each type of panettone.
The premise behind these findings hinges on the fermentation process involved during the production of panettone, which can generate trace amounts of alcohol. While the heat during baking typically evaporates most of the alcohol, those enjoying the cake still have to contend with residual amounts. Notably, the sugar present can react upon consumption and potentially yield positive breathalyzer results, according to the tests conducted.
To clarify, Detran-GO stressed this phenomenon is due to alcohol present only in the mouth and does not enter the lungs, meaning the readings reflected are not indicative of intoxication comparable to consuming alcoholic beverages. Still, results above the legitimate thresholds for legal consumption can spark potential penalties such as fines or even suspension of driving privileges.
President Oliveira explained the matter, stating, "O álcool encontrado no panetone pode ser atribuído a diversos fatores durante o processo de fabricação.” Detran-GO merely aims to inform and educate motorists, not to penalize them unnecessarily. For those concerned about the readings, drinking water can clear the mouth of alcohol remnants, effectively resetting breathalyzer results.
Previous assessments had already identified similar issues with regular bread, prompting ample investigations from consumer rights advocates, namely the Brazilian Association for Consumer Defense (Proteste). The organization has sent formal communications to governing bodies to reconsider acceptable levels of alcohol present due to food preservation practices utilized by manufacturers, claiming some brands of bread may even exceed legal limits for non-alcoholic products.
The holiday season, traditionally associated with indulgence and festivity, may become inadvertently linked to serious driving mishaps. Detran-GO aims to provide proactive advice to the public: if you sample the festive panettone, combine it with proper hydration and wait several minutes before attempting to drive. This precaution allows you to safely avoid any potential complications if stopped for checks. It's all about responsibility—enjoy the festive treats, but don’t risk safety on the roads.
For many, panettone is embedded within family traditions, encouraging togetherness and celebration. Yet, as the Detran-GO officials would recommend with their light-hearted yet serious tone, relish your treats, mind your drinking, and maintain diligence when choosing to drive. They noted: "Depois de comer o famoso alimento natalino... o teste acusou 0,51% de álcool... o panetone está liberado, mas se beber não dirija!" This sentiment encapsulates not just the holiday spirit but also the gravity of road safety during this celebratory time.
Education, awareness, and safety remain at the forefront of holiday celebrations. So next time you’re about to indulge, think about being responsible behind the wheel. Panettone might yield unexpected results, but armed with knowledge, this festive delight can be enjoyed without jeopardizing safety on the roads.
