Kazakh Youth Embrace Kumis, but Alcohol Content Can Reach Beer Levels

Kumis is gaining popularity among young people: the traditional drink is increasingly bought for gatherings with friends and parties, with some viewing it as an almost non-alcoholic alternative. However, experts warn that due to natural fermentation, kumis contains ethyl alcohol, reports infohub.kz.

Journalists from KTK TV channel conducted an experiment in Aktau. Before drinking kumis, the breathalyzer showed zero for the correspondent, but after a glass of the drink, the device registered 2.45 promille.

"Right now, as you can see, the breathalyzer shows 2.45 promille. This indicates that the kumis consumed contains ethyl alcohol. This is very dangerous for drivers," said narcologist Korlan Eleuova.

Experts note that drivers sometimes try to explain the alcohol detected in their system by consuming kumis. However, subsequent tests can confirm the presence of significant amounts of alcohol.

"Sometimes a person says: 'I only drank kumis.' We offer a re-examination, the person gives blood. And there we find alcohol—one and a half, two promille," said Madi Tokanov, head of the Regional Center for Mental Health in Mangystau Region.

Producers also admit that some young people choose the drink not only for its taste. Kumis can cause a feeling of intoxication, and in terms of alcohol content, some varieties can approach beer.

"Some deceive themselves. They say: 'I only drink kumis'—and they drink it every day. This is self-deception. The result is different. In terms of alcohol, it can be almost like beer," noted kumis producer Yerzhan Telmanuly.

Alcohol appears in kumis naturally during fermentation. Its content can vary depending on the production method and shelf life.

There is no separate control over the strength of privately produced kumis. Therefore, experts advise carefully checking the composition and storage conditions of the drink.

Drivers are recommended to completely abstain from kumis before driving. Consuming the traditional drink does not exempt from responsibility if a check shows the presence of alcohol in the body.