What are "interferents," in the context of breath testing?

In the context of breath testing, "interferents" refer to substances that can affect the accuracy of the BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) measurement. These substances can either mimic the presence of alcohol or chemically react with the sensor in the breathalyzer. Factors like gases from the mouth, medications, or certain food items can produce false readings by interfering with the sensor's ability to accurately measure ethanol.

Understanding that interferents can distort the results is crucial for the reliability of breath testing. Accurate readings are essential for legal and health assessments, making it important for operators to be aware of potential interferents and their effects on the breathalyzer's performance.