Musty is a serious taint that can occur in all beverage types- primarily caused by introducing trichloroanisole (TCA) contamination via the following routes:
Poor storage of raw materials
Poor storage of finished product
Poor storage of packaging
Contamination of pipework
Contamination of transportation materials- such as wooden pallets, cardboard Musty flavours are imparted by moulds metabolising chlorophenols and then producing TCA. This is promoted by dark and damp areas- commonly cold storage facilities and cellars. It is not uncommon for refrigeration units to generate TCA if their timing or thermostat is operating incorrectly- creating condensation over extended periods.
TCA is such a problem due to two main reasons:
Very low sensory detection threshold
Easy migration through porous surfaces TCA can move through plastic, cardboard, waxed or other surfaces- easily contaminating many different ..