For those lovers of lambanog or coconut wine, worry not.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)- Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) in partnership with the Cavite State University (CVSU) has developed cheaper field-test kit that would detect methanol contamination in alcoholic beverages, including lambanog.
DOST Secretary Fortunato “Boy” T. de la Peña disclosed this development during his weekly report on Oct. 29.
“DOST-Calabarzon featured a technology developed in partnership with Cavite State University (CvSU) to address the buzzing “lambanog” issue that caused toxication and death due to high levels of methanol,” he said.
“The issue attracted national attention and raised fear subsequently causing a negative impact on small local brewing businesses in Calabarzon,” he lamented.
The project, “Development of Field-Test Kit for Detection of Methanol Contamination in Alcoholic Beverages” is led by Dr. Josea Matel of CvSu and Jon Uriel Layos of the DOST-Science Education Institute (SEI).
"The team actually produced simple, fast, and affordable field-test kits for business owners. By taking samples and treating them, the observable change in its hue can now help local brewers determine whether or not their products are safe for human consumption,” de la Peña said.
“With the new technology, the locally brewed alcoholic beverages can be enjoyed without fear or worries.”
DOST-Calabarzon Regional Director Emelita P. Bagsit said using a microfluidic paper-based colorimetric sensor, the field-test kit can detect the presence of high methanol in alcohol such as coconut wine.
"Nais nitong matulungan ang ating mga producers na makapaggawa ng isang de kalidad at ligtas na produkto. Maaari rin nila itong gamitin for internal quality control para masigurado ang kalidad ng kanilang produkto (This will help our producers make a high quality and safe product. This can be used for internal quality control to ensure the quality of their product),” she said.
The project was among the five major projects unveiled by DOST-Calabarzon during the opening ceremony of 2021 Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) on Oct. 11.
READ MORE: https://mb.com.ph/2021/10/11/dost-calabarzon-unveils-5-new-food-processing-agri-projects/