Ripe fruits with high sugar content are prone to fermentation, converting into ethanol (alcohol), or the fermented food itself may contain alcohol. A 100 g serving of lychee contains up to 15,2 g of sugar, which is a significant amount. Lychee pulp is rich in glucose. Consuming large quantities can cause blood sugar levels to rise rapidly, potentially exceeding the liver's capacity to absorb and metabolize sugar.

However, the alcohol content in lychee is minimal and, unlike direct consumption of alcoholic beverages, it does not impair driving ability.

Illustration: Bui Thuy

In the rare event you are stopped for a breathalyzer test immediately after eating lychee and the device registers alcohol, you have the right to explain to authorities that you have just consumed fruit (such as durian, lychee, rambutan). You can request to wait for 15-20 minutes and rinse your mouth with water before taking the test again.

Traditional Medicine Practitioner Bui Dac Sang

Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi Traditional Medicine Association