Copper poisoning at center of Moscow Mule mug ban in Iowa

DAVENPORT, Iowa -- Bars around Iowa are doing away with those shiny signature Moscow Mule mugs thanks to a recently adopted law.

According to the state's alcoholic beverage division, the vodka-ginger beer-lime mixture cannot be served in a solid copper mug.

Officials cite high concentrations of copper causing possible foodborne illness.

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In general, the law prohibits copper from coming in direct contact with foods that have a pH level below six. A traditional Moscow Mule falls well below that threshold.

The state allows some copper mugs which have metal or stainless steel linings inside.

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