NOVEL UV SPECTROSCOPIC METHOD FOR QUANTIFICATION OF CAFFEINE IN MARKETED ENERGY DRINKS

Abstract

Objective: This study is performed to quantitatively estimate caffeine in marketed energy drinks by using UV-Visible spectroscopic method.
 Methods: This experiment was performed on various soft drinks and energy drinks available in the local market of India to determine the caffeine concentration. The quantitative method used was simple, easy UV-Visible spectrophotometric method by using carbon dichloromethane as diluent at 274 nm. UV-Vis spectroscopy is an analytical technique that measures the amount of discrete wavelengths of UV or visible light that are absorbed by or transmitted through a sample in comparison to a reference or blank sample.
 Results: Among all the samples i.e. soft or energy drinks taken for this experiment sample 1 has low concentration of caffeine and the highest concentration was observed in sample 3.
 Conclusion: Caffeine in an energy drink provides a stimulant effect, it gives energy. At lower levels, as it’s typically used in soft drinks, it has less of a stimulant effect and is used mainly for its taste profile. However the concentration of caffeine should be within the limits specified. Excessive consumption of caffeine may lead to anxiety, caffeine dependence, increased urination, and may cause insomnia. Energy drinks can contain high levels of caffeine but are unlikely to be hazardous unless consumed with alcohol. This research is very important analytical process to safeguard the well being of people who are unaware to adverse effects of caffeine.