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Date Published: 27/09/2024

The surprising ways you can fail a breathalyser test without drinking

Certain medications and even foods can push you over the drink-driving limit in Spain

As the debate over the alcohol limit in Spain continues to rage, with the Ministry of the Interior pushing for a reduction to 0.2 grams per litre of blood, what many drivers don’t know is that it’s not just beer, wine and spirits that can push them over the limit.

Surprisingly, many foods and drinks contain trace amounts of alcohol and others produce alcohol through the fermentation process. This means that if you consume these items right before getting behind the wheel and you’re then breathalysed, you could be in for a bit of a shock.

Here are the most common culprits:

Pickles: The preservation process for pickles involves fermentation, which can leave behind small amounts of alcohol. Enjoying a snack before going for a spin? You might want to steer clear of pickles.
Mouthwash: Some mouthwashes contain significant concentrations of alcohol, making them a prime suspect for false positives.
Bread and yeast products: Bread, buns and pizzas may contain tiny amounts of alcohol due to the fermentation process. While it's unlikely to cause a positive result, it's still worth being aware of.
Fruits: Certain fruits, like bananas and grapes, can contain small amounts of alcohol after fermentation, especially if they're overripe.

Medications

It’s long been known that several prescription drugs and even some common over-the-counter medications can impair one’s ability to drive safely. Just recently, the DGT sounded the alarm about medications, revealing that a staggering 80% of consumers are unaware of the effects these drugs can have on driving.

Here are some examples:

NyQuil and Robitussin: These cough syrups contain up to 10% ethyl alcohol, which can lead to a positive breath test result. Vicks Formula 44 acts in much the same way.
ZzzQuil: This popular sleep aid contains diphenhydramine and alcohol, making it a potential culprit for false positives.
Coryalia: Some versions of this cold medication contain alcohol, while others may not, so check the label carefully before hitting the road.
Diazepam: This anxiety medication can cause a false positive due to its effect on metabolism, even though it doesn't contain alcohol.

If you're taking medication, it's essential to consult with your pharmacist to ensure you can drive safely. Remember, medications can not only lead to false positives but also impair your driving abilities.

Stay informed, stay safe and avoid the risk of a false positive.

Find all the latest motoring and travel news here or join our Driving in Spain Facebook group for regular updates

Image: DGT

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