Forensics

Drug Residue in Orange Juice

J. Stephen Duerr, Ph.D., P.E., CPC

Reprinted from "Expertly Speaking"

a DJS Associates, Inc. newsletter

Case Synopsis:  The consumer complained of a pill residue in her 1-quart orange juice carton.  She accused the manufacturer of product adulteration and sued for "big bucks".  Fortunately, she saved the pill residue and provided it for analysis.

Expert Analysis:  Chemical analysis by microFITR infrared spectroscopy determined that the partially-dissolved residue was acetaminophen in a gelatin capsule.  In addition, HPLC liquid chromatography determined that the acetaminophen concentration in the 1 cup of remaining liquid was exactly that expected for ½ capsule dissolved in 1 cup.

The source of contamination was not likely to be the manufacturer since most acetaminophen is no longer manufactured in gelatin capsules.  Furthermore, the partially intact gelatin capsule meant very little time and handling since the introduction into the orange juice liquid.  Handling and elapsed time during manufacturing, shipping, and sale would have scattered any residue and ensured complete dissolution.

Furthermore, almost all of the acetaminophen was accounted for in the drug residue and dissolved in the remaining liquid, so not very much of the relatively safe painkiller could have been swallowed anyway.

Result:  Expert testimony revealed that the consumer had probably introduced the capsule inadvertently at the breakfast table.  The manufacturer prevailed in pre-trial discussions leading to a resolution in the matter.