London, Jul 26 (IANS): Scientists have devised a faster way of telling real Scotch whisky from the fake, a method that could enhance the technology used to tackle the trade in illicit whisky that causes huge revenue losses and threatens brand reputations.

Researchers from the University of Strathclyde, Britain, analysed samples of blended whisky with the help of mid-infrared spectrometry.

The levels of ethanol and colourant led them to identify correctly the genuine and counterfeit samples, according to a Strathclyde statement.

"The whisky industry has tools (that)...involve lab-based analysis, which isn't always the most convenient system if a sample needs to be identified quickly," said David Littlejohn who led the research at Strathclyde.

"There's a growing need for methods that can provide simpler and faster identification and we have developed a method which could be adapted for devices to use on site," he said.