Health Dept. issues copper warning

BY PCC STAFF

FORT MADISON - The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division is advising businesses with alcoholic beverage licenses to know the rules and regulations of using copper mugs with food and beverages. The popular drink, Moscow Mule, is an alcoholic beverage typically served in a copper mug. Many states, including Iowa, have adopted the federal Food and Drug Administration’s Model Food Code, which prohibits copper from coming into direct contact with foods that have a phH below 6.0.

Examples of foods with pH below 6.0 include vinegar, fruit juice, or wine. The phH of a traditional Moscow Mule is below 6.0. This means that copper mugs that have a copper interior may not be used with this beverage. However, copper mugs lined on the interior with another metal, such as nickel or stainless steel, are allowed to be used.

For more information contact LCHD at (319)372-5225.