Applications of Methods to Authenticate Speciality Vinegars
Abstract:
A retail survey of vinegars, using a wide variety of methods and new statistical approaches. Statistical treatment of the results showed that spirit vinegar could be distinguished fully from other types, particularly malt vinegars, by use of trace element analyses with enhancement of the result by inclusion of deuterium:hydrogen ratio data obtained by NMR. Measurement of acetic acid deuterium:hydrogen ratios by isotope ratio mass spectrometry could readily identify corn-derived spirit vinegars. No evidence was found in retail samples of adulteration of malt vinegars with spirit vinegar.
