Urethane in Alcohol Beverages

Urethane or ethyl carbamate is a chemical substance occurred naturally during the fermentation process of alcohol beverages. It has been shown to be a carcinogen for several species of animals, thus it should be regarded as a potential human carcinogen. The Food and Drug Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, U.S.A. have periodically collected samples of alcohol beverages, wines and distilled spirits, both local and imported products to determine and reduce urethane levels in the alcohol beverages. Key words: Urethane, Alcohol beverage, Fermentation