Question:
Beer is a source of which metallic contaminant?
Beer is a source of which metallic contaminant?
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To completely eliminate modern arsenic contamination risks in beverages, modern breweries utilize synthetic polymer filters instead of diatomaceous earth.
Updated On: Jun 22, 2026
- Arsenic
- Cobalt
- Lead
- Barium
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Toxicological Context of Metal Contamination in Beer:
Food safety and toxicology trace different contaminants in processed beverages:
• Cobalt (Historically): In the 1960s, several breweries in the US, Canada, and Europe added Cobalt Sulfate to beer as a chemical stabilizer to maintain a thick, foamy head (froth). This practice was discontinued after it caused a severe outbreak of fatal heart failure among heavy beer consumers, a syndrome named “Beer Drinker's Cardiomyopathy”. Thus, Cobalt is a famous historical metallic contaminant.
• Arsenic (Filtering Processes): In modern brewing, trace amounts of Arsenic can contaminate beer because diatomaceous earth (kieselguhr)---a natural silica-based substance used as a filtering agent to clarify beer---contains arsenic, which can leach into the beverage.
• Lead: Can enter beer through old brass fittings or lead-soldered pipes in vintage dispensing systems.
Step 2: Selection of Answer:
Both Cobalt (famous toxicological food additive/contaminant) and Arsenic (modern filtration contaminant) are highly valid. Cobalt is the classic answer taught in institutional food toxicology courses regarding beer.
Food safety and toxicology trace different contaminants in processed beverages:
• Cobalt (Historically): In the 1960s, several breweries in the US, Canada, and Europe added Cobalt Sulfate to beer as a chemical stabilizer to maintain a thick, foamy head (froth). This practice was discontinued after it caused a severe outbreak of fatal heart failure among heavy beer consumers, a syndrome named “Beer Drinker's Cardiomyopathy”. Thus, Cobalt is a famous historical metallic contaminant.
• Arsenic (Filtering Processes): In modern brewing, trace amounts of Arsenic can contaminate beer because diatomaceous earth (kieselguhr)---a natural silica-based substance used as a filtering agent to clarify beer---contains arsenic, which can leach into the beverage.
• Lead: Can enter beer through old brass fittings or lead-soldered pipes in vintage dispensing systems.
Step 2: Selection of Answer:
Both Cobalt (famous toxicological food additive/contaminant) and Arsenic (modern filtration contaminant) are highly valid. Cobalt is the classic answer taught in institutional food toxicology courses regarding beer.
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