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Many of us know that today, the last day of 2007, is the day that this years alcoholic products expire and therefore must be destroyed in some way. Although some prefer to pour these products down the drain, most will yield their bodies to this effort and destroy alcohol through consumption.

Ethanol is the primary active chemical in beers, wines and liquors. There are trace amounts of other alcohols which may alter the drinks effects, however, they are typically the minority. As chemicals go, ethanol (200proof, dehydrated) has a published material safety data sheet. This sheet should be printed out and posted in a conspicuous place at your drinking establishment so that individuals partaking will stay safe. Below are some symptoms, from the MSDS Section III: Hazard Identification, which may indicate to party goers that they are indeed consuming some amounts of ethanol:

Swallowing: May cause dizziness, faintness, drowsiness,
decreased awareness or responsiveness, nausea, vomiting,
staggering gait, lack of coordination, and coma

There is another document available which describes the metabolic mechanism for alcohol (ethanol). The summary is as follows:

  • Reduces liver glycolosis,  leads to low blood sugar levels
  • Reduces retinal production, leads to temporarily impaired night vision
  • Uses water, leads to additional dehydration

So the basic idea is to avoid driving after drinking, space out your drinking over time and make sure you eat, to get adequate sleep with lots of water, and to go for a sweet drink instead of a coffee in the morning. Hopefully, by working together, we can solve this problem of expiring alcohol and have a pleasant New Years Eve.

2007 has been a great year, thanks to everyone for reading and commenting. See you in 2008!

 
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