Researchers at St. Petersburg State University have created a rapid test to detect preservatives E200 and E210 in carbonated drinks and fruit juices. The test completes its results in about five minutes, according to the university’s press service shared with socialbites.ca.
Benzoic acid (E210) and sorbic acid (E200) are common preservatives used to extend shelf life. These compounds can also occur naturally in some sodas and juices, including products marketed for children. While moderate amounts pose little risk, high intakes may trigger allergic responses. Excessive E210 can contribute to cognitive changes, acidosis, convulsions, and rapid breathing in sensitive individuals.
A team of young scientists from the university unveiled a new express method to detect these additives in beverages. To validate the method, chemists tested a range of baby foods and beverages, noting that children are particularly sensitive to additives in the diet.
The researchers describe their approach as follows: preservatives E200 and E210 are extracted from beverages into a solution of a natural terpenoid, menthol. The analytes are then measured using high performance liquid chromatography with photometric detection. The team highlights that the method selectively identifies the target preservatives at levels below the maximum permissible concentration. The goal is to achieve rapid identification, with sample preparation and analysis completed in under five minutes, as explained by Irina Timofeeva, a professor in the Institute of Chemistry at St. Petersburg State University. Timofeeva is recognized with the Russian Presidential Prize for Young Scientists.
Throughout their work, the authors acknowledge that food products contain a mix of substances such as carbohydrates, organic acids, proteins, vitamins, dietary fiber, and colorants. This complexity can challenge chemical analysis and impact equipment performance. The team notes that their method keeps the process simple and reliable, addressing these analytical hurdles with a straightforward workflow.
Maria Kochetkova, a research laboratory assistant at the Institute of Chemistry, stated that the newly developed method provides a clear and efficient solution to the problem of accurately detecting multiple additives in beverages without lengthy procedures.
As the research progresses, the team continues to emphasize safety and quality in food manufacturing, aiming to equip laboratories with accessible tools for rapid screening of common additives in a range of products, including those used by children.
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