Headspace Analysis

Headspace analysis examines volatile compounds accumulated in sealed container headspace using gas chromatography and similar methods. Hundreds of compounds constituting miso aroma can be identified and quantified.

Aroma components change with aging, making headspace analysis useful for maturation assessment. Esters, alcohols, organic acids — the science behind aroma is revealed. A technology translating the subjective 'good smell' into chemical language.

Combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), hundreds of volatile compounds can be identified and quantified. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) is the standard pretreatment, convenient as it requires no solvent dissolution. Visualizing aroma profiles dramatically improves maturation management precision.