Chromatographic study of the chemical composition and potential toxicity of spirits and alcoholic beverages

The composition of vodkas, rectified food alcohols, cognacs, cognac spirits, and other strong alcoholic beverages was studied by chromatography and compared with the composition of industrial (synthetic and hydrolysis) ethyl alcohols, adulterated cognacs, and homemade spirits (samogon) from the illicit market. It was found that the majority of the test alcohol-containing liquids were close to commercial alcoholic beverages in terms of chemical composition and toxic properties. The samples containing ethylene glycol and enriched components of the head fraction of rectification should be considered most toxic.