[Hepatotoxic substances in Brazilian rum]

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether Brazilian "pingas" (liquor distilled from sugar cane) contain toxic agents other than ethanol at levels which might risk consumers health, especially regarding liver damage. We have studied 8 different "pingas" in which the levels of iron, copper and zinc were measured through an atomic absorption method, and the levels of ethanol, acetaldehyde, n-propanol, ethyl acetate, isobutane, and isoamylic alcohol were measured through gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Iron levels were higher than those allowed in two liquors, samples 1 and 8 (respectively 0.57 mg/L and 0.38 mg/L). Such levels may be considered deleterious to health if these liquors are consumed in great amounts and during large periods, especially if a synergistic interaction between alcohol and iron exists, as accepted by some authors. Our findings warrant that further studies be performed.