By Sue Crawford

Last updated at 11:54, Tuesday, 09 October 2012

Pub and bar owners in Cumbria are being warned against the dangers of making “spooky” cocktails in the run-up to Halloween.

Prof John Ashton

John Ashton, NHS Director of Public Health, said dangerous chemicals should not be used in drinks to create ‘smoke’ filled glasses after a teenager had to have her stomach removed in a life-saving operation after drinking such a cocktail.

The dramatic looking cocktails involve the inclusion of liquid nitrogen.

It was one of these cocktails that resulted in 18-year old Gaby Scanlan from Heysham having to have her stomach surgically removed to save her life.

Liquid Nitrogen (LN2) is used in industry and science for its low freezing point. Because of its extremely low temperature, careless handling can result in cold burns.

Gaby is reported to have become breathless and developed severe stomach pain after drinking the cocktail at a bar in Lancaster.

She was taken to Lancaster Royal Infirmary where she was diagnosed with a perforated stomach.

Prof Ashton said: “People should not be playing chemistry in public houses.

“This is a very, very cold substance and it is the equivalent of subjecting your oesophagus and stomach to frost bite.

“As this case highlights, there is a major safety implication and I urge bar owners and managers not to use this substance in drinks that anyone is going to consume.

“It could have fatal implications.”

First published at 11:26, Tuesday, 09 October 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk