Factor Analysis and Clustering Analysis of Trace Elements in Beers from Different Producing Areas

The sample of beer was digested with HNO3, and the contents of inorganic elements in sample solution were determined by MPT-AES. The results obtained were analyzed by SPSS 17.0 statistical software. It was found by the results of factor analysis that 52.803% of the total variance were contributed by the factor 1 (representing the elements of Co, Sr and Mn) and factor 2 (representing the elements of Zn, Fe and Cu), hence, these elements were taken as the characteristic elements for beers. The results of clustering analysis showed that the nine beers could be distinguished clearly, and the characteristic elements were different in the beers from different producing areas. The proposed method could be used for the adscription discrimination of beer′s producing areas.