24 States and Counting – the Ban on Powdered Alcohol

Although powdered alcohol was initially approved by the FDA, states have taken matters in to their own hands, by making moves to ban it before it can ever hit local markets.

Palcohol was approved to be sold in one-ounce packets – equal to one shot of alcohol – in which you mix with water for a cocktail that can be made on the go. However, states swiftly made moves to stop the product from ever reaching consumers, largely because the product’s likelihood for abuse, far surpasses the likelihood that it will be used in times of an impromptu happy hour.

As many as 28 states reportedly share the same sentiments – as evidenced by the 47 bills that have been passed that solely focus on powdered alcohol. Unanimously approving the ban on Palcohol, Virginia is not only the largest state supporting the movement, it has also identified possessing, selling, buying or using the product as a class 1 misdemeanor. With a potential punishment of a $2,500 fine and 12 months in jail, states joining ranks with Virginia include: Alaska, Louisiana, South Carolina, Massachusetts, and Vermont; with more undoubtedly on the way.

Delegate Alfonzo H. Lopez shares that, “I am proud that we were able to take action this session to protect our young people and ban powdered alcohol in the commonwealth of Virginia. It was the right move to protect Virginians, especially young people, because the risk of abuse and misuse is just so high with this product.”