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Scientists make ‘Atomik’ vodka from Chernobyl grain, say it’s safe to drink

Posted at 11:39 AM, Aug 09, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-09 14:59:24-04

You likely aren't planning to visit Chernobyl any time soon, but that doesn't have to mean you can't get a taste of it.

A team of scientists from the UK and Ukraine have created a vodka distilled from rye grown in the exclusion zone near the site of Chernobyl's nuclear power plant.

It's also made from water pulled from the area's aquifer.

So, would you be insane to drink what they are calling 'Atomik' vodka?

The makers say no, and that it’s perfectly safe to drink. The scientists, however, admit the grain starts out radioactive but claim the distillation process removes the dangerous isotopes.

They even say they had a university lab run tests to ensure the vodka was safe to drink.

They are hoping to release the vodka to the public in limited supply, where it will have to compete with liquors that were never radioactive.

The Chernobyl Spirit Company says it will donate 75 percent of its profits to people who still live in the area.