When it comes to the impact of closure choice on biogenic amines in wine, the type of closure used can indeed play a role in the levels of these compounds present in the final product. Biogenic amines are organic compounds that can be found in various foods and beverages, including wine. They are formed through microbial activity during fermentation and can have health implications if consumed in high amounts.
Factors influencing biogenic amines in wine
Before we delve into the specific impact of closures on biogenic amines in wine, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence the presence of these compounds in the first place:
- Microbial activity during fermentation
- Yeast and bacteria strains present
- Fermentation conditions
- Aging processes
Closure types and biogenic amines
Now, let’s explore how the choice of closure, whether it be cork, screw cap, or synthetic cork, can influence the levels of biogenic amines in wine:
Cork closures
Cork closures are a traditional choice for sealing wine bottles. However, they are not airtight, which means they allow for a small amount of oxygen to interact with the wine over time. This interaction can impact the development of biogenic amines in the following ways:
- Oxygen exposure can promote the growth of certain bacteria that produce biogenic amines
- Cork taint, caused by the presence of trichloroanisole (TCA), can also contribute to the formation of biogenic amines
- Improperly sterilized corks can introduce contaminants that lead to biogenic amine formation
Screw cap closures
Screw cap closures have gained popularity in recent years due to their convenience and ability to provide a more airtight seal compared to cork. When it comes to biogenic amines, screw cap closures can have the following impact:
- Reduced oxygen exposure limits the growth of bacteria that produce biogenic amines
- Less risk of cork taint contamination leading to lower levels of biogenic amines
- Consistent seal quality reduces the likelihood of microbial contamination during storage
Synthetic cork closures
Synthetic cork closures offer a middle ground between traditional cork and screw cap closures. They aim to provide a similar aesthetic to natural cork while offering a more consistent seal. In terms of biogenic amines, synthetic cork closures can have the following impact:
- Similar to screw caps, synthetic corks provide a more airtight seal, reducing oxygen exposure
- Minimized risk of cork taint contamination compared to natural cork closures
- Less variability in quality compared to natural corks, resulting in more consistent levels of biogenic amines
Research and findings
Several studies have investigated the relationship between closure types and biogenic amines in wine, with varying results. Here are some key findings from recent research:
- A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that wines sealed with cork closures had higher levels of biogenic amines compared to wines sealed with screw caps
- Another study published in Food Control reported that wines sealed with synthetic cork closures had lower levels of biogenic amines than wines sealed with natural cork closures
- Research from the University of California, Davis, suggested that the type of closure used can significantly impact the formation of biogenic amines during storage