The purpose of this study was to examine the composition of various samples of authentic tequila purchased in Mexico and Germany using ion chromatography (IC) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. It was expected …show more content…
Contrary to expectations, the values of the mean inorganic anion concentration (mg/L) was about ten times higher in German-bottled products (26.3 mg/L) that in Mexican-bottled products (2.5 mg/L). This probably indicates the fact that the tequila bottled overseas is typically diluted with drinking water. These results suggest a tendency for that tequila could therefore be characterized by the ionic composition of the water used in its production.
In contrast to earlier work, the results of the FTIR spectroscopy studies revealed that 2 of 5 supposedly 100 % agave commercial tequila samples used were not authentic. These findings imply that mixed drinks are also sold as authentic tequilas.
It appears that ion chromatography (IC) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy yielded directional results and it is suggested that governments and commercial food-testing laboratories, which are facing increased workloads and deceased funding, turn to these techniques as alternatives. It is of course possible that the examinations show some specious results, hence, it is yet not validated to the tequila research. More studies are required in the same