The objective of this study is to detect the presence of citric acid, benzoic acid, and sodium benzoate in some food drinks labeled as preservative-free available in local Iraqi markets. Ninety-two samples of various drinks from different Iraqi companies were analyzed to detect these substances. The concentration samples (mg L-1) were determined in accordance with Iraqi standard specifications. Analytical techniques, including pH meter readings, titrations, and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), were used to quantify specific compounds in the drink formulations. The titration method is based on acid-base neutralization and detects color changes in citric acid, benzoic acid, and sodium benzoate. Linear range (LR), LOD, and LOQ for benzoic acid and sodium benzoate with UV at 230 nm by solvent extraction were obtained at 0.6 – 50 mg L⁻¹, 0.18 mg L⁻¹, and 0.5 mg L⁻¹, respectively. Additionally, the LR and LOD of citric acid, measured by UV-Vis spectrophotometry at 210 nm, were 30–500 mg L⁻¹ and 10 mg L⁻¹, respectively. If Fe (III) was used as a colorimetric reagent in visible light at 530 nm, LR of 1-100 mgL⁻¹ and LOD of 0.3 mg L⁻¹ were achieved. Also, analytes were preconcentrated and validated using ionic liquid HMIMPF6-based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (IL-DLLME) before a UV–Vis spectrophotometric determination. The investigation showed that the concentrations of these substances were within recommended limits, ensuring the health and safety of Iraqi consumers.
Mhdi et al. (Sun,) studied this question.