Health Risks from Heavy Metal Ions in Wines
Author Information
Author(s): Declan P Naughton, Andrea Petróczi
Primary Institution: School of Life Sciences, Kingston University
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine target hazard quotients (THQ) from literature reports giving empirical levels of metal ions in table wines.
Conclusion
The THQ values calculated are concerning in that they are mainly above the safe level of THQ<1.
Supporting Evidence
- THQ values for wines from Italy, Brazil, and Argentina were lower than those from other countries.
- Hungarian and Slovakian wines had THQ values reaching 300.
- THQ values for a sample of red and white wines ranged from 30 to 80 for females based on a 250 mL glass per day.
Takeaway
This study found that many wines have dangerous levels of metal ions that could harm your health if you drink them regularly.
Methodology
THQ values were calculated from reported concentration ranges of metal ions in wines from various countries.
Potential Biases
The study does not account for cross effects with other potential toxins or the effects on different age groups.
Limitations
THQ values do not reflect genetic predispositions to disease or the effects of binge drinking.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website