Trace Element Content of Moonshine

Although the contamination of illicit whiskey with lead is widely accepted, the potential for exposure to other trace elements from drinking "moonshine" is less well appreciated. To better understand the potential for trace element poisoning, we undertook an analysis of samples of Georgia moonshine. Although a number of elements were not found in significant quantities to be considered harmful, four elements (copper, zinc, lead, and arsenic) were present in potentially toxic concentrations. The possible implications and sources of the contamination are discussed.