NFSU Journal of Forensic Science

Non-Alcoholic Beverages (NAB) are incumbent part of our life. Humans around the globe have integrated the consumption of Non-alcoholic beverages as a lifestyle routine. In such a scenario, the adulteration of such commonly used beverages is of great concern. The present paper reviews and presents the extensive literature on adulterants of commonly used non-alcoholic beverages such as tea, coffee, milk, juices, soda water, carbonated drinks, etc. The paper also presents extensive review on the forensic chemical analysis and instrumental analysis of such non-alcoholic beverages. Various instruments used in the forensic analysis include Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS), Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), (Ultraviolet-Visible) UV-vis Spectroscopy, and isotopic dilution, etc. The routine analysis of these Non-Alcoholic Beverages is based on the margin of exposure approach made by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This review synthesizes data from three prominent databases - Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar - to investigate patterns of adulteration and forensic analysis in non-alcoholic beverages.

DNA profiling has profoundly changed the way the criminal investigation took place. It came as a powerful tool to identify individuals, solve crimes, and reunite loved ones. Since its first use in a criminal case in 1986, DNA evidence has helped not only to convict the guilty but also to exonerate the innocent. However, the growing use of DNA technology has brought numerous challenges ranging from legal, ethical and privacy concerns particularly concerning data protection, informed consent, and the potential for misuse. Indian laws on use of DNA profiling have been fragmented as the existing legislation falls short of providing clear guidelines for the collection, storage, and use of DNA data. This paper explores the judicial decisions and critically analysing the existing legal framework regarding the evolution of DNA profiling in India its admissibility in the courtroom. This paper further explores the international framework and how India can benefit from the use of DNA technology while ensuring and the dignity and rights of its people and balancing the advancement of forensic science with the protection of fundamental rights.

This study titled "Microbial Analysis of Rabbit Skin Decomposition in Different Soil Compositions" focuses on understanding how varying soil compositions influence microbial activity during decomposition. The study was conducted over a period of 28 days, with observations recorded at seven-day intervals. Rabbit skin was used as the biological material to simulate soft tissue decomposition under natural soil conditions. Three distinct soil types—alluvial, black, and red soil were selected based on their contrasting physical and chemical properties. The analysis included bacterial staining, fungal staining, and pH measurement to assess microbial growth and environmental changes throughout the decomposition process. The results revealed significant differences in microbial activity among the soil types. Alluvial soil showed the highest microbial presence due to its nutrient-rich and well-balanced structure. Black soil exhibited moderate microbial growth, while red soil demonstrated the least activity, likely due to its low organic content and acidic nature. This study highlights the crucial role of soil type in influencing decomposition and microbial succession. The findings offer valuable insights for forensic applications, particularly in estimating the postmortem interval and understanding the decomposition process in various environmental conditions.