Abstrakt:
The aim of this work was to test the applicability of 'Mira DS' handheld Raman
spectrometer in food analysis; namely, for the determination of ethanol in selected
alcoholic drinks, such as plum brandy, vodka, two types of beer, white rum, and white wine.
(Standard) Raman spectra of low-chain aliphatic alcohols and ethyl acetate were used to
reveal and identify potentially interfering substances. The results obtained have shown
good agreement between the ethanol content determined and the amount declared by
producers. However, it was also found out that the portable device tested is not very suitable
for monitoring ethanol in beer due to the presence of intensively fluorescent constituents;
possible solutions of this problem being discussed and some prospects outlined.
