Bamboo vinegar solutions had pHs of 2.5 to 2.8, and the amounts of organic constituents were estimated to be 2.3 to 4.6% (w/w). Volatile organic compounds (28 components) were detected by GC–MS, and among of these, 11 compounds were common to three samples of bamboo vinegar. Perhaps acetic acid, 3-methyl-1,2-cyclohexadione, guaiacol, p-cresol, and syringol contributed to the characteristic odors (sour, smoky, and medicinal note) in bamboo vinegar.
