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The paper studies the influence of work parameters expressed as brewing time, temperature of water, particle sizes and contact time on the releasing of mineral elements (Ca, Mg, Zn, Cu, Fe and Pb) in coffee infusion. The higher extractability was obtained in the first 10 minutes for infusion made of coffee samples with particles in range of 125 µm - 500 mm and hot water for Ca (33.02 mg/100g) while in case of diffusion made of coffee beans (diameter > 2 mm) in contact with cold water no lead was noticed after 60 minutes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurement of 40K was used for determination of potassium concentrations in leaves of agave and maguey cactus leaves, and coffee beans of various origins. The procedure was also used to study potassium transfer to tequila (alcoholic drink made of agave cactus), and the cactus and coffee infusions using 40K as a natural radioactive tracer. Counting of 40K in Marinelli containers with the aid of a low background NaI(Tl) scintillation detection system for 12–24 hours was employed. The method appeared to be simple and suitable for determination of potassium concentrations in large samples, which eliminates homogeneity problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]