The Role of Voltammetric Methods in Determination of Metals in Alcoholic Beverages: A Critical Review

Abstract

Sources of metals in alcoholic beverages can be classified into
primary and secondary sources. High concentrations of metals may
lead to potential toxicity in cases of overconsumption over a long
period of time. Metal content in alcoholic beverages may be used
to ascertain their authenticity and geographic origin. Therefore, determination
of metals in alcoholic beverages becomes a matter of
utmost importance to forensic agencies.
Many analytical techniques are available for qualitative and
quantitative estimation of metals. Stripping methods can be used,
and anodic stripping voltammetry proves to be a cheap, sensitive,
reliable and less time-consuming method. With advancements in
the field of electrodes, the sensitivity of voltammetry has greatly
increased, making it an ideal analytical technique for the analysis
of metals in wines and other alcoholic beverages.
In the present review, an attempt has been made to critically
review the various aspects of voltammetry with particular attention
to stripping methods along with their application in determination
of metal content in various alcoholic beverages.