Label conformity of carbohydrate-electrolyte beverages ready to drink from national brands in respect to Brazilian law

Abstract

The food market for special products for individuals who practice physical activity, including carbohydrateelectrolyte beverages (RHE), is growing and inspection is required about its chemical composition and nutritional labels. This study evaluated labels of RHE ready for consumption, commercialized in supermarkets of Belo Horizonte(MG) and Campinas (SP), and analyzed their compliance to Brazilian regulations. Sodium and potassium contents were determined in laboratory by emission spectrometry, as well as chloride contents by the Mohr method in 44 samples of 4 different brands. All brands were in disagreement with the Brazilian legislation regarding labeling. A difference (p<0.05) between the amount observed of at least one electrolyte and the amount declared in the label was found, where 61% of them exceeded the labeled value in ±20%. The concentration ranges (mg/200mL) of the electrolytes in the samples studied were: Na (33,3 to 102,7), K (21,6 to 101,4) and Cl (49,8 to 125,12), values that can contribute tohyponatremia. It was concluded that manufacturers should review their product formulation and labels and that the inspection by competent agencies should be more severe, so that the RHEs can have their function preserved.