Lotoko, also known by the slang term "pétrole", is a home-distilled alcoholic drink or " moonshine" in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Lotoko is usually made from maize, but sometimes from cassava or plantain. Heads of corn are cut up and boiled into a mash which is then fermented and distilled using improvised stills made from cut down oil drums. Although it is officially banned, because of its high alcohol content (over 50%), its production is widespread in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Lotoko production, being a cottage industry, is very low-tech. It provides its mainly female producers with a degree of financial independence.
Health concerns
Because of the woody core of the cobs of corn, the alcohol produced contains high levels of methanol which is toxic.[ citation needed] Lotoko made from cassava or plantains doesn't carry the same methanol risk.
Local NGOs have expressed concern [1] [2] as to its health effects in the communities of Kinshasa, where it costs 200 to 300 FC, compared to 600 FC for commercially brewed beers.
Etymology
Lotoko is a Lingala word and is known country-wide.
References
- ^ Le "Lotoko", un alcool indigène dangereux pour la santé des Kinois [Lotoko, an indigenous alcoholic drink that's dangerous to the health of Kinshasans]
- ^ La boisson indigène Lotoko, un danger pour la santé [An indigenous drink, Lotoko, is a health hazard]
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