Can the harmful substances in white spirits volatilize?
Feb 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, harmful substances in white spirits can volatilize, but this occurs only during heating and cannot be completely eliminated. Methanol is a harmful substance found in white spirits and is highly toxic to the human body. During the heating process, due to its relatively low boiling point, methanol volatilizes significantly as the temperature rises, thereby reducing the methanol content in the white spirits and lessening its harm to the human body.
Generally, harmful substances in white spirits can volatilize, but they require heating to do so and cannot completely evaporate. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Methanol is a harmful substance found in white spirits and is highly toxic to the human body. During heating, due to its relatively low boiling point, methanol volatilizes significantly as the temperature rises, thereby reducing its content in the spirit and lessening its harmful effects on humans. Aldehydes are another type of harmful substance present in white spirits, which may cause various discomfort symptoms. Heating can also reduce the levels of aldehydes because they similarly have relatively low boiling points and will rapidly volatilize during heating. Even though some harmful substances can evaporate, this does not mean they will completely disappear in a short period.
To ensure health, it is recommended to consume high-quality white spirits in moderation and avoid long-term storage of opened bottles. Additionally, before consumption, it may be beneficial to pour the spirit into an open container to promote the volatilization of harmful substances.
