Pruno and Botulism: Why Homemade Jail Alcohol Can Be Deadly

Pruno is homemade alcohol that some people make in jails and prisons — also called hooch, brew, prison wine or buck. Whatever the name, it can give you far more than a cheap buzz: a life-threatening illness called botulism.

What botulism is

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin — a poison — that attacks the nerves. It can cause trouble breathing, muscle paralysis and even death. The toxin is made by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and sometimes related bacteria.

Why pruno is risky

People usually make pruno by fermenting fruit, sugar, water and other ingredients for several days in a sealed plastic bag — conditions that let the bacteria make the toxin. And you can't see, smell or taste it.

In several states, incarcerated people have gotten botulism from pruno. Many needed hospital care, and some needed a ventilator (breathing machine). Everyone in these outbreaks was incarcerated — but anyone who drinks pruno is at risk.

Staying safe

• The alcohol in pruno won't destroy the toxin or make the drink safe.
• There is no known safe way to make it.
• Batches that caused botulism contained at least one of: potatoes, honey, or food from bulging cans.
• The only sure protection is not to drink it. Making it puts you and anyone who drinks it in danger.

If symptoms start

Get medical help immediately — don't wait. Quick care can save your life. Be honest and direct: botulism can be mistaken for more common illnesses, so your health care providers need to know you drank pruno to diagnose and treat you quickly and correctly.

Sources

Based on "Pruno and Botulism," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; a work of the United States government in the public domain.