Fine wine is one of the purest drinks produced in the world. There are few additives, no preservatives, and minimal processing. Therefore, it is no wonder why many experts claim that drinking wine in moderation is beneficial for the body because of its rich source of antioxidants. However, this does not mean that wine lacks harmful substances. The presence of phytosanitary products (like pesticides), volatile compounds, and harmful microorganisms can all negatively affect wine’s appeal to many consumers. One of the biggest concerns is the high metal content in many wines produced all over the world.
One way to measure metal in wine is to examine the target hazard quotient (THQ) content in various wines. The scale is easy to understand. Any substance with a THQ over 1 is judged to be unsuitable for daily consumption. According to a study done by Dr. Declan Naughton and Andrea Petroczi, the high THQ levels if many wines (above 50 in many wines that were tested) can be mainly attributed to vanadium, copper, and manganese. Other metal ions in wine that also have high THQ levels are zinc, nickel, and lead. The source of these metals is relatively unknown. Some suggest the soil and others insist it’s the grapes themselves. Regardless, the high content of heavy metals in some wines is of major concern and it definitely strikes a blow into the ‘one glass a day is good for you’ theory.
Unsurprisingly, the same study by these two scientists shows that Italian wines have safe levels of THQ’s. Italy is the only European country to have this honor. On the other hand, it was concluded that other wine producing nations like France, Germany, and Spain (all of whom pride themselves on having the best wine in the world) have high levels of THQ. The results of the study by Naughton et al. are truly shocking. Manganese, for example, has been linked with Parkinson’s disease. Let’s just say I am happy that I am drinking Italian wines like Chianti Classico. However, next time, I will be wary when someone offers me a glass of Merlot.
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/food-poisoning/news/20081029/heavy-metals-found-in-wine
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What about an Italian Merlot?
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ReplyDeleteI did not know that metal ions posed a threat in wine consumption. I find it ironic that countries such as France, who really do claim they have the finest wine in the world, have such health risks in their products. Do they not have labs that analyze their beverages as well, so that they can lower their THQ levels? Either way, I am thankful we are drinking in Italy and cheers to your Chianto Classico.
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