What Is Powdered Alcohol? Definition & What You Need To Know

What Is Powdered Alcohol?

Powdered alcohol comes in a solid form as opposed to its usual liquid state. The substance has been absorbed into a carbohydrate. When dissolved, however, it can transform water into a mixed drink. Although it can be obtained internationally and illicitly, powdered alcohol is not currently sold in most parts of the U.S.

Powdered alcohol has raised some significant controversy since it was initially approved in 2014. This is because it’s easy to abuse the substance (i.e.by snorting it). In addition, it’s easier to conceal, as people can add it to food or other beverages with or without someone else’s knowledge. With that, it can also be challenging to discern how much alcohol is consumed.

How Is Powdered Alcohol Made?

Alcohol’s primary ingredient is ethanol, which can be produced either synthetically or organically by yeast fermentation. During its drying process, it’s possible to use the ‘microencapsulation’ method, which entails encapsulating alcohol into small particles. From there, manufacturers might add various ingredients or flavorings to alter the powdered taste. With that, it’s important to note that powdered alcohol is not always in powdered form- it can come in capsules, too.³

How Does Powdered Alcohol Work?

Powdered alcohol is intended to be a convenient and accessible method of consuming alcohol. Unlike liquid drinks, it is far more portable, and it can be easier to hide and potentially even abuse. Even though it is illegal in most states, some people have taken to making this type of alcohol on their own.

Activation Process

Powdered alcohol generally comes in small pouches or packets. The activation process entails mixing the powder with a liquid substance like water, soda, or juice to create a mixed alcoholic drink. Some companies use various additives or flavorings to enhance the taste. After the powder fully dissolves into the liquid, the drink can be consumed.

Alcohol Content

Although exact statistics are unknown, the brand Palcohol’s powdered alcohol contains approximately 55% alcohol by weight (ABW).⁴ Alcohol by weight considers the weight of alcohol compared to the weight of the total beverage. In contrast, a typical ABV for beer is between about 5%, wine is about 12%, and distilled spirits are about 40%.⁵

Is Powdered Alcohol Legal?

As of 2016, 34 states have outright banned the sale and consumption of powdered alcohol. However, each state has its own penalties and limitations regarding this law. In addition, each country has its various laws pertaining to alcohol possession, consumption, and distribution, and this applies to both liquid and powdered states.

Differences Between Powdered Alcohol & Liquid Alcohol

Powdered alcohol requires mixing the substance into a liquid to create the alcoholic drink. Liquid alcohol is already ready to drink. Powdered alcohol is generally stronger than liquid alcohol, although its exact concentration and volume can be difficult to measure. They are also produced and marketed in significantly different ways.

Differences between powdered alcohol and liquid alcohol include:

How Do People Consume Powdered Alcohol?

Powdered alcohol can be consumed in several different ways. In its intended form, a user will mix the specified amount of liquid with the powdered alcohol. Water is common, but some companies will suggest using other liquids, including sodas and juices. Users are also generally instructed to shake the mix to make sure the powder fully dissolves before drinking.

That said, it’s also possible for people to intentionally misuse powdered alcohol. Due to its solid state, it can be snorted intravenously for a faster and stronger high. Inhalation is associated with numerous health risks, including breathing problems, nose damage, increased rate of infection, brain damage, and an increased potential for addiction.

Concerns About Powdered Alcohol

Although alcohol in all forms can be dangerous, public health officials have been particularly worried about the impacts of powdered alcohol. Binge drinking is already a serious concern in society, and powdered alcohol may amplify that issue along with other problems associated with abuse and overconsumption. In addition, due to its more discreet nature, it may be easier to hide this substance in everyday life.

Some concerns that have been raised about powdered alcohol include:

• Sneaking powdered alcohol into venues or events that don’t allow alcohol consumption
• Minors abusing powdered alcohol
• People accidentally consuming it (due to it being mixed in food or beverages)
• Risk for inconsistent mixing and higher alcohol volumes
• Difficulties with regulation
• Potential for abuse
• Risks associated with inhalation
• Risks associated with tampering or other forms of contamination

Treatment Options For Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse can worsen over time, and it can also be challenging to treat on your own. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options may include detoxification,  inpatient treatment (rehab), outpatient therapy, medication, therapy, support groups, and healthy lifestyle changes. Although it may feel difficult, acknowledging the problem is the first step toward making sustainable changes.

Some treatment options for alcohol abuse include:

• Detox: Detox provides 24/7 support as people undergo the withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol. While it isn’t technically treatment, it may be the first step, and it may be necessary for more moderate or severe alcohol addictions.
• Rehab: Rehab is a generic term typically used to describe formal, comprehensive addiction programs. Rehab lengths vary, but it’s typical to spend anywhere from 1-3 months in such settings.
• Addiction recovery apps: An addiction recovery app like Reframe can help you quit drinking or drink less through lessons, progress tracking, motivational tools, and access to a support network
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for addiction is a well-known therapeutic modality that can help people with compulsive behaviors and negative thoughts about themselves or others. It may be used to help treat addiction and its subsequent cravings.
• Dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT): DBT integrates components of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These modules can help people experiencing alcoholism and other co-occurring mental health issues.
• Support groups: Peer-led support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or S.M.A.R.T Recovery provide structure and camaraderie for people recovering from addiction.
• Medication: The FDA has approved three medications to treat alcohol use disorder. These include disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone.⁶

When to Seek Professional Help

Alcohol addiction can impact every part of someone’s functioning. It often contributes to a variety of emotional and physical consequences, and these issues may compound over time. If you are struggling with signs of addiction (or simply feel concerned about your drinking), it may be time to consider seeking professional support.

Look for a therapist specializing in addiction- you can start your search using an online therapist directory or online therapy platform. The right fit is paramount, as you want to feel safe talking about your concerns candidly.  If you want to discuss medication options or receive medication management, consult with either an in-person or online psychiatrist.