Identifying the Botanical Origin of Alcohol Using 2H SNIF NMR: A Case Study of “Polish Vodka” PGI

Authentication of alcoholic beverages is essential for ensuring product authenticity, protecting brands, and guaranteeing consumer safety. Globalization and complex trade networks have increased the risk of non-authentic products entering the market. Poland's long-standing tradition of vodka production, dating back to medieval times, employs unique techniques that give Polish vodka its distinct character. To safeguard its reputation, the "Polish vodka" designation mandates strict production guidelines. This study utilized ²H SNIF NMR and chemometric techniques to differentiate the botanical origins of raw materials used in vodka production, specifically grain, potato, and sugar beet. Additionally, for the first time, mixtures of alcohols from different C3 plants were analysed to detect adulteration. Significant isotopic differences were confirmed using analysis of variance and Tukey's tests. Linear relationships in grain-potato, grain-sugar beet, and beet-potato mixtures enabled composition determination. The detectability threshold for adulterants ranged from 10% to 50%, depending on the type of raw material.