Multivariate analysis of the profile of elements concentrations in the yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) marketed in the MERCOSUR

Abstract

The yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is commonly used for preparation of stimulating drinks in South America. In this study, 24 elements were determined in different brands of yerba mate commercialized in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. The element concentrations were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The element concentrations found were submitted to hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA), in order to identify the yerba mate according to the country of origin. The HCA revealed a clustering tendency by country of origin and distinct characteristics of some samples. The HCA also revealed the influence of some element in the yerba mate plant or their absorption by the plant. The results obtained by means of PCA corroborated with those of HCA, indicating that the form of yerba mate processing and the elements absorption by the plant must be responsible for the formation of the observed clusters.