2-methylisoborneol

Technical specification

Assessment

The best way to evaluate 2-methylisoborneol in beer is as follows. Without covering the glass, swirl the beer to release the aroma. Take a single short sniff. Repeat as necessary.

Amount of flavour per capsule

260 ng per capsule

Threshold

The flavour threshold of 2-methylisoborneol in beer is 85 ng / l.

Origins

Mouldy flavours from 2-methylisoborneol are imparted to beer through use of contaminated brewing liquor, rinse liquor or dilution liquor. The source of such taints is growth of microorganisms in the water supply.

Confusions

• Geosmin
• Ethyl fenchol
• 2-Isopropyl-3-methoxypyrazine

Importance

2-Methylisoborneol imparts a mouldy, earthy taint to beer. It is associated with a moderate degree of consumer rejection. Beers tainted with 2-methylisoborneol are described by consumers as ‘dirty’ or ‘contaminated’.

CAS registry number

The CAS registry number for 2-methylisoborneol is 2371-42-8.

Other names

• 1,6,7,7-tetramethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-6-ol
• MIB
• exo-1,2,7,7- tetramethyl bicyclo(2.2.1)heptan-2-ol

Remarks

Taints caused by 2-methylisoborneol are usually associated with problems related to abstraction of surface waters. Water treatment practices should remove the methylisoborneol prior to use.

Threshold distribution

Capsules per pot

10

Legal notices

This product is protected by the following trade marks and patents:

• US Patent no. D679900
• European Community Trade Mark
  Registration no. 009937574
• European Community Trade Mark
  Registration no. 009856527
• US Trade Mark Registration no. 4345057
• US Trade Mark Registration no. 4345056