Incoming Natural Corks - Average TCA Score

CQC Audit Results - September, 2021

Analysis of natural cork shipments continues to demonstrate a steady reduction in the occurrence of the chemical compound associated with taint. Since the adoption of its chemical testing method, the California based Cork Quality Council has screened every shipment of natural corks its members have brought to their warehouses. Before CQC members accept any cork lot into inventory, screening samples are sent to ETS Laboratories for GC/MS analysis of 2,4,6-Trichloroanisole (TCA).

Historic results show major reductions in TCA

Last year, CQC members conducted over 30,000 analyses. Their combined screening records show a steady reduction in measurable TCA levels that are now 99% lower than the results seen when records were first tabulated in 2001.