fusel

[Ger. fusel =spirits of inferior quality.] (See the compound.) fusel-oil, fuselol, s. Chem. & Comm.: An oily product formed during the fermentation of potatoes, corn, and the juice of grapes. This is separated in the rectification of the spirit, occurring in the last part of the distill. ate as an acrid, oily liquid, having a peculiar odor and burning taste; it is poisonous, producing headache and nervous depre ion. It can be detected by rubbing some brandy, whisky, ., on the hands and allowing the ethyl alcohol to evaporate, when the smell of fusel-oil can be recognized.