TESTE COLORIMÉTRICO EMPACOTADO EM CANUDO PARA DETECÇÃO DE METANOL EM BEBIDAS ALCÓOLICAS

Description

15 Colorimetric test packaged in a straw for detecting methanol in alcoholic beverages. Field of invention

[001] The present invention falls within the field of analytical chemistry applied to food and beverages, especially in rapid colorimetric tests. More specifically, it relates to a colorimetric test for the detection of methanol in alcoholic beverages, the test device of which consists of a biodegradable straw containing a set of packaged reagents, enabling the identification of the contaminant in a rapid and low-cost manner. Fundamentals of the invention

[002] Methanol is a compound frequently found as a contaminant in improperly or clandestinely produced alcoholic beverages, and may result from fermentation processes or intentional adulteration to increase alcohol content. Ingestion of methanol represents a serious risk to public health, since its metabolism in the human body leads to the formation of formaldehyde and formic acid, highly toxic substances that can cause anything from irreversible visual disturbances to death. For this reason, the reliable determination of the presence of methanol in alcoholic beverages is a critical need for regulatory bodies, industries, and consumers, ensuring both legal compliance and safety of consumption.In this context, it becomes essential to develop analytical methods that are fast, selective, accessible, and applicable to different types of alcoholic matrices, overcoming the limitations of conventional procedures currently used.

[003] Reference methods for determining methanol in alcoholic beverages are based on chromatographic techniques, such as gas chromatography coupled to flame ionization detection (GC-FID) or mass spectrometry (GC-MS), which exhibit high sensitivity and selectivity. However, these methods require expensive instrumentation, sophisticated laboratory infrastructure, and specialized personnel, making them difficult to access in contexts of inspection. Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 30 / 49 / 15 routine or in regions with limited resources. On the other hand, alternative colorimetric methods, although low-cost, have low selectivity and precision, in addition to involving the use of chemical reagents that can generate waste and increase operational complexity. Given this scenario, the urgency of analytical methods that are simultaneously precise, robust, economically viable, and portable, capable of providing reliable results without the need for additional reagents, meeting both industrial demands and field monitoring requirements, becomes evident.

[004] In document BR 10 2020 010043 2 A2 a METHOD is presented This study aims to develop a quantitative colorimetric method for detecting the percentage of methanol in fuel ethanol, gasoline, and colorless, unsweetened distilled alcoholic beverages, replacing gas chromatography. The method is based on the oxidation of methanol with potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7), followed by staining of the oxidation product with chromotropic acid. The result is a color pattern that can be correlated with the concentration of methanol present in the fuel. The method can also be used to estimate the amount of methanol in unsweetened distilled alcoholic beverages, such as vodka and cachaça.Nevertheless, the aforementioned method is a colorimetric test that involves the manipulation of chemical reagents, such as concentrated acids and strongly oxidizing agents, and is also associated with the production of chemical vapors, as it involves chemical oxidation with K2Cr2O7 in an acidic medium.

[005] Document BR 10 2021 024797 5 A2 also presents a QUANTITATIVE METHOD FOR DETECTING THE METHANOL CONTENT (%) IN FUEL ETHANOL, GASOLINE AND DISTILLED ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, COLORLESS AND UNSWEETENED, and aims to develop a colorimetric method for quantitative analysis capable of determining the percentage of methanol in fuel ethanol, gasoline, distilled alcoholic beverages and vinegar, replacing gas chromatography. The method is based on the oxidation of the sample in the presence of potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4), followed by the consumption of manganese dioxide (MnO2) with sodium sulfite and the coloration of the oxidation product of Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 31 / 49 / 15 methanol with chromotropic acid, to generate different color patterns and thus quantify the methanol content in the sample of interest. The proposed methodology is also selective for detecting methanol at the maximum concentration required by MAPA, equal to 20 mg / 100 mL, in distilled alcoholic beverages, vodka, whiskey and commercial cachaça, and the same applies to industrial vinegar. However, this method consists of a colorimetric assay that requires the handling of potentially hazardous chemical reagents, such as concentrated acids and highly reactive oxidizing agents. In addition, the procedure is associated with the release of chemical vapors, since it is based on an oxidation reaction using potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) in an acidic medium.However, these characteristics make the method under discussion significantly different from the new test of the present invention that is proposed, as it does not involve direct handling of potentially hazardous reagents, since the reagents of the STRAW-PACKED COLORIMETRIC TEST FOR DETECTION OF METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES store the reagents packaged in a straw, which do not come into direct contact with the user.

[006] Document CN111551533A deals with an ENHANCED SURFACE SUBSTRATE, PREPARATION METHOD AND DETECTION METHOD FOR METHANOL IN INSULATING OIL. The method employs the Raman detection technique and comprises the steps of preparing a reaction solution, in which this reaction is prepared from silver nitrate, o-nitrobenzoic acid and ultrapure water. Although it uses a vibrational spectroscopic technique, the method involves sample preparation with chemical reagents and is limited to the determination of methanol in insulating oil, not applying to food and beverages.

[007] Document CN109490428A addresses the RAPID DETECTION METHOD FOR METHANOL CONTENT IN A TYPE OF WINE. The method employs direct gas chromatography for the detection of methanol content in beverages, using butyl acetate as an internal standard and using an HP-INNOPWAX chromatographic column for sample separation. This method has the advantages of high sensitivity and reproducibility. However, the method employs a chromatograph in the analysis procedure, which is a high-cost and expensive piece of equipment to maintain, in addition to Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 32 / 49 / 15 to make portable analyses unfeasible. In addition, the method also involves the use of reagents such as solvents and chemical derivation agents.

[008] Document CN107884557A discusses a RAPID DETECTION DEVICE FOR METHANOL IN WOOD AND ITS DETECTION METHOD. The invention describes a device for detecting methanol in wood, which includes a tank, heater, discharge fan, sensor, controller, and display. The sensor is installed in the inner chamber of the tank body, and the sensor, heater, discharge fan, and display are connected to the controller. Besides being restricted to the determination of methanol in wood and not in beverages, the method employs a heating system and is based on solid-phase distillation for analyte extraction; that is, it would not be applicable to the determination of methanol in food and beverages.

[009] Document CN106093139A deals with A METHOD FOR DETECTING THE CONCENTRATION OF METHANOL SOLUTION. In the method intended for fuel analysis, a standard solution is first prepared and then the standard working curve of the methanol gas sensor under different temperature conditions is plotted according to the relationship between the concentration of the standard methanol solution and the measured resistance value; finally, the concentration value of the solution to be tested is obtained using the standard working curve. The methanol gas sensor used in the invention does not need to be in direct contact with the solution to be tested, so the direct methanol fuel cell can be operated within a reasonable range of methanol concentration. Nevertheless, the method is based on the vaporization of the sample, since the detector used measures the presence of methanol in the gas phase and applies to the determination of methanol in fuels, but not in food and beverages.

[0010] Document CN116952887A describes a METHOD FOR DETERMINING CHARACTERISTIC SPECTRUM SEGMENTS AND A METHANOL CONTENT DETECTION SYSTEM BASED ON CHARACTERISTIC ABSORPTION PEAKS. The method is based on a spectroscopic technique in the infrared region of a petroleum sample, with subsequent chemometric treatment of the data. More specifically, the method uses a multivariate analysis model based on the spectral bands from 5700 to 6050, 6500 to 7500, and 7800 to 9000 cm⁻¹. However, the Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 33 / 49 / 15, the described model applies to petroleum matrices, not applying to the analysis of food and beverage matrices.

[0011] Document CN105021600A presents a METHOD FOR DETECTING TRACES OF METHANOL IN WATER. Sample preparation consists of collecting 10 mL of the water sample to be tested, adding 2 mL of diluted sulfuric acid solution at a concentration of 25%. Then, 0.5 mL of aqueous potassium permanganate solution with a mass percentage concentration of 2% is added, mixed uniformly, and allowed to stand for 5 to 30 minutes. Next, aqueous Na2SO3 solution with a mass percentage concentration of 5% is added dropwise. After decolorization, the method involves the addition of 0.2 mL of chromotropic acid and 6 mL of concentrated sulfuric acid, followed by heating in a water bath at 60-100 °C for 5 to 30 minutes. As described, the aforementioned method is a colorimetric test that involves the manipulation of chemical reagents such as concentrated acids and strongly oxidizing agents.

[0012] Document CN110672759B addresses an INDIRECT DETECTION METHOD FOR METHANOL CONTENT IN TRANSFORMER INSULATING PAPER. The invention discloses a method for measuring methanol content using paper chromatography coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The method has the advantages of high sensitivity and reproducibility. However, the method employs a chromatograph in the analysis procedure, which is a high-cost and expensive piece of equipment to maintain, and also makes portable analyses impractical. It is evident that the described method is also a colorimetric test that involves the direct manipulation of chemical reagents such as concentrated acids and strongly oxidizing agents.

[0013] Invention CN102262088A describes a RAPID METHANOL DETECTION DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME. The method involves a rapid formaldehyde detection device. Its composition comprises a test paper sheet, chromogen, and color scale card, which is characterized in that the described test paper sheet is formed from sodium hydroxide and potassium periodate, in addition to a chemical developer 4-amino-3-hydrazine-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole dissolved in hydrochloric acid. Like other colorimetric methods, the method in Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 34 / 49 / 15 The issue also includes the direct handling of chemical reagents, such as strong acids like HCl.

[0014] In general, as described, what is found in the patent bases is a plurality of colorimetric methods and kits for methanol detection, which make use of potentially hazardous chemical reagents, such as concentrated strong acids and agents with high oxidation potential. In addition, non-portable chromatographic methods with high operational costs are also described. Other inventions also deal with instrumental methods, using spectroscopy without the need for chemical reagents during the analytical method for methanol determination. However, handheld instrumental methods are low-cost, which makes large-scale production and distribution unfeasible. Brief description of the drawings

[0015] The subject matter of this invention will become fully clear in its technical aspects from the detailed description that will be made based on the figures below, in which: Figure 1 shows a view of the main module of the straw containing the colorimetric test for detecting methanol in alcoholic beverages. Figure 2 illustrates the expanded view of the main module, as well as a support base (002), which comprises a terminal coupling (003) with a one-way valve (004), as well as a flexible tubular straw (005), one or more internal hollow retainers (006), as well as the compartmentalized reaction units (007 and 008) and a terminal hollow retainer (009), in addition to an absorbent sampling unit (010). Figure 3 shows one of the non-restrictive usage modalities: 001 - main module; 002 - support base; 005 - flexible tubular straw; 010 - absorbent sampling unit. Figure 4, a - Non-restrictive use of the main module coupled with a terminal retainer; b - Non-restrictive use of the main module equipped with the waste neutralization and / or storage unit; c - Use of Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 35 / 49 / 15 non-restrictive use of the main module coupled with additional compartmentalized reaction units; d - Non-restrictive use modality of the main module coupled with an additional compartmentalized reaction unit. 005 - flexible tubular straw; 006 - internal hollow retainers; 007 and 008 - compartmentalized reaction units; 009 - terminal hollow retainer; 010 - absorbent sampling unit; 011 - absorbent unit for reagent neutralization; 012 and 013 additional reaction units; 014 - internal compartments for accommodating a liquid reagent. Figure 5 shows the results of a blind test performed with seven solutions containing methanol at varying concentrations of the present invention. Description of the invention

[0016] In line with the objectives previously presented, the present invention relates to a colorimetric test packaged in a straw for the detection of methanol in alcoholic beverages, which has, but is not limited to, a main module (Fig. 1; 001), as well as a support base (Figures 2 and 3; 002), which comprises a terminal coupling (Fig. 2, 003) with a one-way valve (Fig. 2; 004), as well as a flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a, 4b; 005), one or more internal hollow retainers (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006), as well as compartmentalized reaction units (Figures 2 and 4c; 007 and 008) and a terminal hollow retainer (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009), In addition to an absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3, 4b, 4c, 4d; 010). It can be modified to accommodate different reaction units, as well as containing an absorbent unit for reagent neutralization (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011) or even additional reaction units (Fig.4c; 12 and 13), or even one or more internal compartments for accommodating a liquid reagent (Fig. 4d; 014).

[0017] The present invention consists of a main module (Fig. 1; 001), which is externally structured by a flexible tubular tube (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005), so that the main elements and reaction units necessary for the operation of the test are properly packaged in internal compartments within said main module (Fig. 1; 001). In this way, the user is protected from Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 36 / 49 / 15 contact with such reagents. The said flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005) can be connected to materials of a diverse nature, including, but not limited to, biodegradable materials.

[0018] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005) has a multifunctional character, simultaneously or individually performing the functions of structural body, sample holder, sample aspiration device and waste storage container after the test is performed. The sample holder function occurs when the end of the straw is placed in contact with the beverage to be analyzed, allowing a controlled volume of the sample to be retained inside. The sample aspiration function is performed when the user manually compresses the body of the straw, expelling the internal air; by sealing one end and positioning the other in contact with the sample, the elastic return of the walls to their original position generates a suction that promotes the entry of the sample into the interior of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005).Finally, the waste storage function is performed at the end of the test, when all reagents and products resulting from the reactions remain confined and properly contained within the structure of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005), preventing leaks and external contamination. These functions can be explored individually or together, but the functionalities of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005) are not limited to these.

[0019] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the main module (Fig. 1, 001) can be coupled to a support base (Figs. 2 and 3, 002), which contains a terminal coupling (Fig. 2, 003) with a one-way valve (Fig. 2, 004). Thus, the terminal coupling (Fig. 2, 003) attaches to the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005), so that the device can be positioned upright on a workbench, table, in the palm of the hand, or any other horizontal surface or support. When coupled to the support base (Figures 2 and 3, 002) and its terminal coupling (Fig. 2, 003), it hermetically seals one end of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005). The one-way valve (Fig. 2, 004) allows only, but is not limited to, the exit of air. Thus, when coupled, said valve Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 37 / 49 / 15 allows the user to perform the function of aspirating samples from the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b,005), without the need to use fingers to seal one of the ends.

[0020] Furthermore, the present invention may operate coupled or not to a support base (Figures 2 and 3, 002). Moreover, said test may also contain, in place of the support base (Figures 2 and 3, 002), a hollow terminal retainer (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 009). Said hollow terminal retainer (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 009), when acting as a substitute for the support base (Fig. 2, 002), may couple, but in a restrictive manner, a one-way valve (Fig. 2, 004). With this, the aforementioned set also allows the user to aspirate the sample through the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005) without the need to manually occlude one of its ends, providing greater practicality, safety and reproducibility to the sampling process.

[0021] Can operate coupled or not to the support base (Fig. 2, 002) and / or to the hollow terminal retainer (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 009). Even in the absence of coupling to any of these modules, the aspiration function of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005) remains fully operational. In this mode of operation, the user can manually occlude one end of the straw and position the other in contact with the sample, compressing the body of the straw in order to expel the internal air. Then, the elastic return of the straw walls to their original position generates suction, promoting the controlled entry of the sample into the interior of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b, 005).

[0022] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, it has a controlled sampling system, consisting mainly of an absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010), positioned internally at one end of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005). Said absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) is compartmentalized at its ends by a terminal hollow retainer (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009) and by an internal hollow retainer (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006). The aforementioned absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) consists of an absorbent medium which, in contact with the sample, retains a defined volume of the sample inside the straw. Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 38 / 49 / 15 under analysis. The volume to be sampled can be precisely controlled by expanding the size or properties of the absorbent sampling unit media (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010).

[0023] The present invention can operate either by capillary diffusion of the liquid inside the main module (Fig. 1; 001) or by gravitational flow, or by a combination of both mechanisms. The main module (Fig. 1; 001) is designed to be partially submerged in a container containing the sample under analysis, so that the absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) remains totally or partially submerged. In this configuration, the sample enters the interior of the main module (Fig. 1; 001) by capillary action, by positive pressure, or by the combination of these forces, passing through the absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010). When the main module (Fig. 1; 001) remains immersed in the sample, the liquid can rise internally by capillarity and / or positive pressure, reaching the other reaction units compartmentalized inside the main module (Fig. 1; 001).In one operational variant, after the absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) is saturated by the beverage, the main module (Fig. 1; 001) can be removed from the sample and positioned vertically using the support base (Fig. 2; 002). In this arrangement, the retained sample flows by gravity to the subsequent internal sections, promoting contact with the detection reagents.

[0024] In addition, the present invention comprises one or more hollow retainers, which may be terminal (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009) and / or internal (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006). The aforementioned retainers (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006 and Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009) are fixed inside the main module (Fig. 1; 001), configured in such a way as to delimit internal compartments and physically separate different functional units, such as the sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010), the reaction units (Figure 4c; 007, 008, 012, 013 and Figure 4d; 014) and the neutralization and / or waste storage unit (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011). Each retainer (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006 and Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009) has a hollow region into which a communication medium can be attached. This medium is configured to allow the controlled flow of reaction liquids between the Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 39 / 49 / 15 compartments during analysis, while maintaining compartmentalized fixation of reagents and specific media for each functional unit, preventing unwanted mixtures and ensuring the integrity of the system. Said media may also be of the selector type, which allows the passage of one or more specific reagents or analytes.

[0025] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, it may contain an absorbent unit for neutralizing reagents (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011). Said unit is positioned on the opposite side of the sampling point, so that the solid and liquid residues generated during the analysis are directed by capillary action or gravitational force to the absorbent unit for neutralizing reagents (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011). Said unit may consist solely of an absorbent medium that retains the residues, but it may also contain a neutralizing agent, of a different chemical nature, that mitigates or eliminates the potential harmful effects of the analysis residues. Furthermore, another function of the absorbent unit for neutralizing reagents (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011) is to safely contain such residues inside the main module (Fig. 1; 001), so that the user is not exposed to harmful reagents or residues.Furthermore, the aforementioned absorbent unit for neutralizing reagents (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011) ensures safe disposal of reaction waste after use of the main module (Fig. 1; 001).

[0026] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present invention may have one or more compartmentalized reaction units (Figures 2 and 4c - 007, Figures 2 and 4c - 008, Fig. 4c - 012, Fig. 4c - 013, Fig. 4d - 014). The device is not restricted to a single sequence of reactions specific to the determination of methanol, and may encompass different colorimetric methodologies applicable to its qualitative or semi-quantitative detection. For this purpose, the test employs — although not in a limiting way — reagents compartmentalized in reaction units strategically arranged in sequence, so that the sample and its transformation products follow a methodologically defined reaction flow, allowing the controlled development of the analytical steps and the consequent formation of the colorimetric signal indicative of the presence of methanol. Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 40 / 49 / 15

[0027] The compartmentalized reaction units (Figures 2 and 4c - 007, Figures 2 and 4c 008, Fig. 4c - 012, Fig. 4c - 013, Fig. 4d - 014) of the present invention may comprise different types of reagents or substrates, including not only chemicals and physical agents, but also enzymes and other compounds of a biological nature. Said reagents may be impregnated in support media or simply retained therein, in solid or liquid state. When, in one of the embodiments of use, a reaction route involving the use of strongly corrosive liquids such as concentrated acids or bases is preferable, such liquids may be confined in hermetically sealed pressure-sensitive ampoules, so that the liquid may be released from them by pressing the end of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005), so as to break the containers containing such liquids.

[0028] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the compartmentalized reaction units (Figures 2 and 4c - 007, Figures 2 and 4c - 008, Fig. 4c - 012, Fig. 4c 013, Fig. 4d - 014) may comprise different types of reagents or substrates, including, without limitation, chemical compounds, physical agents, enzymes and other materials of a biological nature. Said reagents may be impregnated in support media or simply retained therein, in solid or liquid state, according to the type of reaction desired. When the application requires reaction routes involving strongly corrosive liquids, such as concentrated acids or bases, these liquids may be confined in hermetically sealed, pressure-sensitive ampoules disposed inside the main module (Fig. 1; 001).Under these conditions, the reagent liquid can be released by squeezing the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005), in order to break the ampoules and promote controlled contact between the reagents and the sample, ensuring safety and operational integrity during the test.

[0029] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the sample aspiration function by compression of the flexible tubing (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005) can be used to accelerate the passage of samples through one or more reaction units.

[0030] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the reaction units can be used to convert methanol into other chemical compounds. Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 41 / 49 / 15 detectable by means of colorimetric reagents, such transformations may occur by chemical, physical or enzymatic routes, including, without limitation, oxidation, reduction, derivatization or other types of reaction. The present invention comprises one or more reaction units, at least one reagent capable of altering its color, indicating the presence of methanol in the sample under analysis. This color change may occur directly by the interaction of the colorimetric reagent with methanol, or indirectly by means of compounds generated from methanol in the compartmentalized reaction units.

[0031] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the liquid phase of the sample under analysis is used to solubilize, dissolve or dilute the reagents confined in the compartmentalized reaction units. However, also in a non-restrictive embodiment, an external reagent, preferably in liquid or gaseous state, may be added to the main module (Fig. 1; 001) through the sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010).

[0032] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the main module (Fig. 1; 001) consists of a series of elements compartmentalized internally or coupled to a main module (Fig. 1; 001). The body of the flexible tubular straw (005) is wholly or partly translucent, so that it is possible to visualize the colorimetric change of the reaction that indicates the presence of methanol, without violating the body of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005).

[0033] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a non-colorimetric fluorescent reaction may be used to indicate the presence of methanol directly or indirectly. Accordingly, an external radiation source may be used to direct a beam of light to a specific position on the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005), which contains an internally compartmentalized unit capable of reacting with light.

[0034] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the main module (Fig. 1; 001) may be used as just one of the reaction units, and one of the transformation products generated in the main module (Fig. 1; 001) may be transferred to another container for subsequent analysis. Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 42 / 49 / 15

[0035] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the main module (Fig. 1; 001) coupled to an image capture instrument or device may be used for quantitative analysis of methanol by colorimetry or other analytical technique.

[0036] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, it may contain additional elements to the main module (Fig. 1; 001), which are not limiting, such as a dropper sampler, a container for the sample to be analyzed, one or more external reagents, one or more dropper bottles, a graduated colorimetric scale for quantitative analyses, a digital or printed instruction manual, a sealed package or box, and other items. Examples of embodiments of the invention

[0037] The following examples are intended to provide a better understanding of preferred embodiments of the present invention, without, however, being limited to the preferred examples mentioned.

[0038] The present invention was experimentally tested and results were obtained that demonstrated its suitability for classifying adulterated beverages. In said test, the main module (Fig. 1; 001) comprised a biodegradable flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005), consisting mainly of starch, 20 cm long and 8 mm in diameter. The hollow terminal retainers (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009) and internal retainers (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006) were manufactured by 3D printing in PLA material, with an outer diameter of 7.95 mm, an inner diameter of 3 mm and a height of 5 mm. The support media for the sampling units (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) and the compartmentalized reaction units (Figures 2 and 4c - 007, Figures 2 and 4c - 008, Fig. 4c - 012, Fig. 4c - 013, Fig. 4d - 014) was regenerated fiber, arranged continuously and intertwined, forming a flexible filament with an average diameter of 0.2 to 0.5 mm.The length of the sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) was 2 cm, compacting a total of 0.5 g of fiber. Two reaction units were used, each containing a specific reagent, which were compartmentalized into 5 mm long units, containing approximately 0.125 g of regenerated fiber. The first reaction unit was used for retention of the lyophilized AOX enzyme. The fiber of the second reaction unit was impregnated with a solution of Titanium(IV) bis(ammonium lactate)dihydroxide. In the tests, the modulus... Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 43 / 49 / 15 main module (Fig. 1; 001) was immersed in a container containing the sample in question, so that the sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) was completely submerged. After 20 seconds, the main module (Fig. 1; 001) was placed vertically on the support base (Fig. 2; 002). During 2 minutes of reaction, the liquid from the sample itself hydrated the AOX enzyme, allowing it to react with the methanol present in the sample. The product of the reaction between AOX and methanol is hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide, in turn, reacts with Titanium(IV) bis(ammonium lactate)dihydroxide (colorless), producing a yellow complex. Thus, in the tests performed, the appearance of a yellow color indicated the presence of methanol. Seven solutions containing methanol with concentrations ranging from 0 to 60 mg / ml were analyzed in a blind test (Fig. 5).The results are shown in Figure 5, which reveals the notable difference in the test for the presence and absence of methanol. A 95% accuracy rate was obtained for the 20 tests. The 5% error is associated with samples with a methanol concentration below 20 mg / ml, which is the maximum permitted methanol level in distilled beverages. Thus, for samples with a methanol concentration equal to or greater than 20 mg / ml, the accuracy rate was 100%. Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, pp. 44 / 49

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. A COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR THE DETECTION OF METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, characterized by comprising, but not limited to, a main module (Fig. 1; 001), in addition to a support base (Figures 2 and 3; 002), which comprises a terminal coupling (Fig. 2; 003) with a one-way valve (Fig. 2; 004), in addition to a flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a, 4b; 005), one or more internal hollow retainers (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006), as well as compartmentalized reaction units (Figures 2 and 4c; 007 and 008) and a terminal hollow retainer (Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009), in addition to an absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3, 4b, 4c, 4d; 010); 2. A colorimetric test packaged in a straw for detecting methanol in alcoholic beverages, according to claim 1, characterized by containing modifications to accommodate different reaction units, such as an absorbent unit for neutralizing reagents (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011) or even additional reaction units (Fig. 4c; 012 and 013), or even one or more internal compartments for accommodating a liquid reagent (Fig. 4d; 014); 3. A colorimetric test packaged in a straw for detecting methanol in alcoholic beverages, according to claim 1, characterized in that it is externally structured by a flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005), such that the main elements and reaction units necessary for the operation of the test are properly packaged in internal compartments within said main module (Fig. 1; 001); 4. COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005) has a multifunctional character, simultaneously or individually performing the functions of structural body, sample holder, sample aspiration device and waste storage container after the test has been performed; 5. COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that the user can manually compress the body of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005) and employ the elastic return of the walls to the original position to generate a suction that promotes the entry of the sample into the interior of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005); 6. A colorimetric test packaged in a straw for detecting methanol in alcoholic beverages, according to claims 1 to 5, characterized in that one of the ends of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005) can be coupled to a support base (Figures 2 and 3; 002), allowing the assembly to act as a vertical column; 7. A COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR THE DETECTION OF METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 6, characterized by comprising a controlled sampling system, consisting of an absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) formed by an absorbent medium configured to retain, inside the straw, a defined volume of liquid sample, the value of which is controllable by the dimensional expansion and / or the physical properties of said absorbent medium (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010); 8. COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 7, characterized by operating in combined mode, in which the sample enters the main module (Fig. 1; 001) by capillarity and / or positive pressure, or even aspiration, while the subsequent flow to the reaction units can occur by gravitational action, when the device is positioned on the support base (Figures 2 and 3; 002) with the absorbent sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010) facing upwards, and Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, page 46 / 49 3 / 5 being able to operate as a sample aspirator, from the manual occlusion of its ends; 9. A COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR THE DETECTION OF METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 8, characterized by comprising one or more hollow retainers (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006, Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009) fixed inside the main module (Fig. 1; 001), configured to delimit internal compartments and physically separate different functional units, including the sampling unit (Figures 2, 3 and 4b, 4c, 4d; 010), the reaction units (Figures 2 and 4c - 007, Figures 2 and 4c - 008, Fig. 4c - 012, Fig. 4c - 013, Fig.4d - 014) and the waste neutralization and / or storage unit (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011), each retainer (Figures 2, 4b, 4c, 4d; 006 and Figures 2, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d; 009) being provided with a hollow region in which a communication medium is coupled, configured to allow the controlled flow of liquids between compartments, while maintaining the physical and chemical compartmentalization of the functional units, and containing compartmentalized units that can act as a separation column;.

10. A COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the absorbent unit for neutralizing reagents (Figures 4b, 4c, 4d; 011) is configured to completely confine the neutralized residues inside the main module (Fig. 1; 001), preventing direct contact of the user with potentially harmful substances after using the device; 11. A COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR THE DETECTION OF METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 10, characterized by containing compartmentalized reaction units configured to support different colorimetric methodologies applicable to the detection of methanol, including, but not limited to, reactions based on methanol transformations for indirect detection or direct detection of methanol, including oxidation or reduction, in acidic or basic media, by chemical, physical or biological agents, such as enzymes; Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, p. 47 / 49 4 / 5 12. COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 11, characterized by comprising reagents that may be impregnated in support media or simply retained therein, in solid or liquid state, according to the type of reaction desired, and reagents external to those packaged inside the flexible tubular straw may also be used (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005); 13. A colorimetric test packaged in a straw for detecting methanol in alcoholic beverages, according to claims 1 to 12, characterized by being able to use the liquid phase of the sample under analysis to solubilize, dissolve or dilute the reagents confined in the compartmentalized reaction units; 14. A COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the body of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005) is wholly or partly translucent, so that it is possible to visualize the colorimetric change of the reaction that indicates the presence of methanol, without violating the body of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005); 15. COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 14, characterized by enabling the quantitative determination of methanol, using the strip containing the colorimetric indicator of the flexible tubular straw (Figures 2, 3, 4a and 4b; 005) as a visual quantitative indicator, combined with a colorimetric scale, or associated with a measuring instrument; 16. COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR DETECTING METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 15, characterized by containing additional elements to the main module (Fig. 1; 001), but not limited to, which may be a dropper sampler, a container for disposing of the sample to be analyzed, one or more external reagents, one or more dropper bottles, a graduated colorimetric scale for quantitative analyses, a digital or printed instruction manual, a sealed package or box, in addition to other items; 17. A COLORIMETRIC TEST PACKAGED IN A STRAW FOR THE DETECTION OF METHANOL IN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, according to claims 1 to 16, characterized by its modular and adaptable architecture, which allows the substitution or modification of reagents, media, and reaction units to enable the colorimetric analysis of different chemical analytes, including organic or inorganic compounds detectable by chromogenic reaction. Petition 870250094127, dated 10 / 15 / 2025, pp. 49 / 49

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