ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 4

Detection of Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) as a Natural Component in Wine
Buel, E
Vermont Forensic Laboratory, VT

Vose, J
Vermont Forensic Laboratory, VT

Schwartz, M
Vermont Forensic Laboratory, VT

Tighe, T
Vermont Forensic Laboratory, VT

(Received 16 June 2000; accepted 3 January 2001)

Abstract

The compound gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) was found in extracts from samples of unadulterated wines. This finding indicates that GBL is a naturally occurring component in some wines and may be present in similar products. The concentration detected was approximately 5 µg/mL and was easily observed using a simple extraction technique followed by GC/MS analysis. These results illustrate the need to carefully examine an allegedly adulterated sample's matrix before determining a sample was laced with GBL.

Keywords:
forensic science, gamma-butyrolactone, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, wine

Paper ID: JFS15116J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS15116J
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.