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.