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Lead poisoning from homemade wine: a case study.
S Mangas1, R Visvanathan, M van Alphen
1Environmental Health Service, Department of Human Services, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. sam.mangas@dhs.sa.gov.au
Environmental Health Perspectives
|May 4, 2001
Summary
Homemade wine contaminated with lead from a corroded bathtub caused severe lead poisoning. This case highlights the dangers of using non-food-grade materials for beverage preparation, emphasizing safe storage practices.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Lead poisoning can result from environmental exposures.
- Homemade beverages may pose risks if stored improperly.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old man presented with symptoms of severe lead poisoning.
- High blood lead levels (98 microg/dL) were detected.
- Investigation traced the source to homemade red wine with lead concentrations up to 14 mg/L.
Findings:
- The lead originated from a corroded enamel bathtub used for storing grape must.
- The wine's low pH (3.8) likely increased lead solubilization from the bathtub glaze.
- Experimental leaching in the tub yielded 310 mg/L lead from commercial wine.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical importance of using food-grade materials for food and beverage preparation.
- Improper storage containers can leach toxic metals, leading to severe health consequences.
- Public awareness regarding safe practices in homemade food and drink production is crucial.