Pyrene (as a marker for oil adulteration)

Pyrene is a type of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) naturally found in crude oil. Because its presence correlates closely with oil content, measuring pyrene levels in a sample can help detect oil contamination or adulteration. When someone adds cheaper or unwanted oils to a product, the pyrene concentration changes, signaling potential tampering. In quality control, analyzing pyrene levels allows experts to verify the purity of oils and detect adulteration, ensuring product authenticity and safety.