Analysis and detection of metals in synthetic food colors of sweets by TLC, FTIR and AAS

Abstract

: To determine the presence of heavy metals (Pb,Cd,Co and Ni) in food colors using qualitative and quantitative methods.: Qualitatively asses food color sample purity through TLC. Quantitatively analyze heavy metal content by AAS and identify functional groups by FTIR.: Food adulteration is a global public health concern, with synthetic food colors often used, including non permitted variants. Study aimed to address this issue by analyzing 15 samples from local markets for heavy metal presence in food colors.: 15 samples collected from local markets including sweets, sweet drops, juices and gelatin, standard food color samples. Chemicals used Butanol,GAA, kbr,D/W. TLC chamber, FTIR, AAS equipment were used along with standards of Pb, Cd,Co and Ni.: TLC analysis revealed synthetic food colors in most samples FTIR identified functional groups in Samples and AAS detected metal presence in 2 out of 15 samples.: In summary, the study revealed that many local market food color samples contain synthetic colors and traces of harmful heavy metals like cadmium and Cobalt.