What is the purpose of adding dyes to denatured alcohol?

The addition of dyes to denatured alcohol serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it enhances the visual identification of denatured alcohol, signaling its altered state and rendering it visually distinct from consumable ethanol. This helps prevent accidental ingestion or unauthorized use in beverage production. Secondly, the dye acts as a deterrent, making it more challenging to remove the denaturants and reclaim pure ethanol for illicit purposes. By incorporating dyes into denatured alcohol, regulatory and safety measures are reinforced, ensuring that the denatured product remains clearly identifiable, unappealing, and suitable for its intended industrial or non-beverage applications.