Determination of Silicone Antifoam in Beer

Abstract

An atomic absorption method is described for the determination of polydimethylsiloxane resi dues in beer, in the concentration range 002-0-5 mg/litre. Actual levels found were 0-02-0-15 mg/litre from fermentations treated with 2-3 mg/litre silicones.

Environmental poly(organosiloxanes) (silicones)

“…As a result of high PCB concentrations in Lake Michigan fish, the commercial fishing industry has been curtailed and warnings of the hazards of human consumption of fish obtained by recreational activities have been issued. The potential hazards of PCB intake to human health and the well being of the ecological system have been aptly described (5).…”

“…Instrumental. Sample extracts in MIBK were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (5,12,13). This study used Perkin-Elmer Models 303 and 460 spectrophotometers with nitrous oxide-acetylene flames.…”

“…Many uses of silicones are open ended, in that the silicones are released unaltered upon consumption of a silicone-containing product. Often, the silicone is utilized as a trace additive to a bulk material (5). Examples are silicone antifoam formulations added to cooking oil, fruit juices, and beer.…”