Simplified method to quantify geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol concentrations in water and microbiological cultures.

A simple and rapid method for the extraction and quantification of geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol is described. Using methylene chloride extraction and gas chromatography, the procedure eliminates costly stripping devices. Recovery efficiency of the procedure is approximately 65% with a sensitivity equal to the human threshold for these two important off-flavor compounds.