Non-Alcoholic and Craft Beer Production and Challenges

Is malting an absolute must? Native triticale as a stand-in for barley malt in the brewing process

BACKGROUND

To remain competitive, brewers must innovate by incorporating novel elements beyond traditional styles. Thus, exploring triticale as a modern substitute for barley malt is promising, especially given its higher amylolytic activity compared to barley. This study aimed to assess the impact of substituting up to 50% of barley malt with unmalted triticale on green beer quality, encompassing multiple stages from wort production to primary fermentation at a laboratory scale.

RESULTS

Triticale-based worts (ratios 10-50%) had lower extract content than 100% barley malt. However, incorporating 10% of triticale led to only a 1% decrease in extract content compared to the all-malt wort. Shearzyme® 500L, an endo-1,4-β-xylanase with β-glucanase side activity, effectively addressed wort viscosity by breaking down arabinoxylans and β-glucans in triticale cell walls. All triticale-based beers exhibited lower ethanol content compared to reference beer, as is typical when using adjuncts. In green beer, a 50% triticale ratio lowered ethanol content by 16% (without enzyme) and 19% (with enzyme) compared to 100% malt beer. However, green beer with 10% triticale had satisfactory levels of total polyphenol and vicinal diketone content, among other parameters.

CONCLUSION

Commercial enzyme application significantly enhanced proteolytic activity within the grain. Fermentations of enzyme-treated worts showed higher amino acid levels, further confirming the increased proteolytic activity facilitated by the chosen enzyme. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the brewing process using native triticale. Building on this foundation, future studies will focus on optimizing mashing conditions to enhance the fermentation profile of the wort. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of Hanseniaspora vineae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae co-fermentations on aroma compound production in beer

In recent years, the boom of the craft beer industry refocused the biotech interest from ethanol production to diversification of beer aroma profiles. This study analyses the fermentative phenotype of a collection of non-conventional yeasts and examines their role in creating new flavours, particularly through co-fermentation with industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae. High-throughput solid and liquid media fitness screening compared the ability of eight Saccharomyces and four non-Saccharomyces yeast strains to grow in wort. We determined the volatile profile of these yeast strains and found that Hanseniaspora vineae displayed a particularly high production of the desirable aroma compounds ethyl acetate and 2-phenethyl acetate. Given that H. vineae on its own can't ferment maltose and maltotriose, we carried out mixed wort co-fermentations with a S. cerevisiae brewing strain at different ratios. The two yeast strains were able to co-exist throughout the experiment, regardless of their initial inoculum, and the increase in the production of the esters observed in the H. vineae monoculture was maintained, alongside with a high ethanol production. Moreover, different inoculum ratios yielded different aroma profiles: the 50/50 S. cerevisiae/H. vineae ratio produced a more balanced profile, while the 10/90 ratio generated stronger floral aromas. Our findings show the potential of using different yeasts and different inoculum combinations to tailor the final aroma, thus offering new possibilities for a broader range of beer flavours and styles.

Craft Beer Produced by Immobilized Yeast Cells with the Addition of Grape Pomace Seed Powder: Physico-Chemical Characterization and Antioxidant Properties

The aim of this study was to produce and to characterize craft beer fermented by immobilized yeast cells with the addition of Prokupac grape pomace seed powder (2.5% and 5%), to obtain a beer enriched with phenolic compounds and improved sensory characteristics. The immobilization of the yeast cells was performed by electrostatic extrusion, while the obtained calcium alginate beads were characterized by light and scanning electron microscopy. Phenolic and hop-derived bitter compounds in beer with or without grape pomace seed powder (GS) phenolics were identified using UHPLC Q-ToF MS. The results indicated that GS adjunct significantly shortened the fermentation process of wort and increased the content of phenolic compounds, especially ellagic acid, flavan-3-ols and pro(antho)cyanidins in the final products compared to the control beer. A total of twenty (iso)-α-acids and one prenylflavonoid were identified, although their levels were significantly lower in beers with GS phenolics compared to the control beer. Beers with GS phenolics showed good antioxidant properties as measured by the reduction of ferric ions (FRP) and the scavenging of ABTS•+ and DPPH• radicals. The concentration of immobilized viable yeast cells was higher than 1 × 108 CFU/g wet mass after each fermentation without destroying the beads, indicating that they can be reused for the repeated fermentation of wort. Beers produced with 5% GS added to the wort exhibited the best sensory properties (acidity, astringency, bitterness intensity, mouthfeel, aftertaste and taste), and highest overall acceptability by the panelists. The results showed that grape pomace seed powder present a promising adjunct for the production of innovative craft beer with good sensory properties and improved functionality.

Cold extraction process for producing a low-alcohol beer, International Pale Lager style: Evaluation and description of flavors using electronic tongue

Grains germinate, dry, and then undergo crushing before being combined with hot water to yield a sweet and viscous liquid known as wort. To enhance flavor and aroma compounds while maintaining a lower alcohol content, cold water is utilized during wort production without increasing its density. Recent years have witnessed a surge in demand for beverages with reduced alcohol content, reflecting shifting consumer preferences towards healthier lifestyles. Notably, consumers of low-alcohol beers seek products that closely mimic traditional beers. In response, batches of low-alcohol beer were meticulously crafted using a cold extraction method with room temperature water, resulting in a beer with 1.11% alcohol by volume (ABV). Sensory evaluations yielded a favorable score of 27 out of 50, indicating adherence to style standards and absence of major technical flaws. Furthermore, electronic taste profiling revealed a striking similarity between the low-alcohol beer and the benchmark International Pale Lager style, exemplified by commercial beers (5 and 0.03% ABV). Notably, the reduced-alcohol variant boasted lower caloric content compared to both standard and non-alcoholic counterparts. Consequently, the cold extraction approach emerges as a promising technique for producing low-alcohol beers within the International Pale Lager style, catering to evolving consumer preferences and health-conscious trends.

Recycled Brewer's Spent Grain (BSG) and Grape Juice: A New Tool for Non-Alcoholic (NAB) or Low-Alcoholic (LAB) Craft Beer Using Non-Conventional Yeasts

Non-alcoholic beer (NAB) and low-alcoholic beer (LAB) are taking over the market with growing sales. Sustainable recycling and valorization of exhausted brewer's spent grain (BSG) coming from craft beer is a relevant issue in the brewing process. In this work, recycled BSG and BSG + GJ (supplemented with 10% grape juice) were used as a wort substrate to inoculate Lachancea thermotolerans, Wickeramhomyces anomalus, Torulaspora delbruecki and Pichia kluyveri non-conventional yeasts to produce NABLAB craft beer. Results showed that wort composed of only recycled BSG produced appreciated NAB beers (ethanol concentration from 0.12% to 0.54% v/v), while the addition of 10% grape juice produced LAB beers (ethanol concentration from 0.82 to 1.66% v/v). As expected, volatile compound production was highest with the addition of grape juice. L. thermotolerans showed lactic acid production, characterizing both worts with the production of ethyl butyrate and isoamyl acetate. T. delbrueckii exhibited relevant amounts of hexanol, phenyl ethyl acetate and β-phenyl ethanol (BSG + GJ). W. anomalus and P. kluyveri showed consistent volatile production, but only in BSG + GJ where fermentation activity was exhibited. The overall results indicated that reused BSGs, non-conventional yeasts and grape juice are suitable bioprocesses for specialty NABLAB beer.

Effect of mashing temperature on fermentation and antioxidant capacity of Qingke wort

Background and Objectives

Mashing temperature is important during beer brewing processes. Qingke malt was a new material whose application in the beer industry holds significant importance for the beer industry and agriculture development in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of mashing temperature on the physicochemical parameters, fermentation capacity, and antioxidant capacity of Qingke wort.

Findings

Ethanol production and the real degree of fermentation decreased with increasing the temperature—S, while the real extract increased with increasing the temperature—S. A lower temperature—S proved to be more advantageous for the fermentation capacity of Qingke wort. In addition, a positive correlation between reducing power and the temperature—P and a negative correlation between the 2,2′‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonate) free radical scavenging activity and the temperature—S were found.

Conclusion

The fermentation capacity of Qingke wort was obtained the best when the temperature—P was 50°C and the temperature—S was 60°C. The antioxidant capacity of Qingke wort was satisfactory; the best was obtained when the temperature—P was 45°C and the temperature—S was 60°C.

Significance and Novelty

This is the first study to investigate the mashing characteristics of Qingke wort under different mashing temperatures. The results show that β‐glucan content was abundant in Qingke wort and was positively correlative with the temperature—S.

Development of gluten-free craft beer: Impact of brewing process on quality attributes and consumer expectations for sensory properties

To date, few studies investigated the differences between the two main gluten-free (GF) brewing techniques, such as the use of enzymes and the use of unconventional GF grains in brewing, by consumer perspective. In this study a GF beer brewed with sorghum and quinoa, as brewing adjuncts, was compared to the enzymatic-treated counterpart, in order to evaluate the effect of deglutinization treatment on physicochemical, volatile, and sensory characteristics of final beer. Moreover, the influence of brewing process and raw materials information on consumers' sensory perceptions, willingness to buy (WTB) and willingness to pay (WTP) was also investigated (n = 105 consumers), under blind (B), expected (E), and informed (I) conditions. The enzymatic-treated sample showed comparable physicochemical attributes with the untreated counterpart, except for a significant reduction in color and foam stability (p < 0.05). Non-significant difference between samples was found in the overall liking, WTB, and WTP mean scores in all three sensory test conditions (p > 0.05). The information about the deglutinization treatment had a negative impact on overall liking (p < 0.01), although WTP for both samples was significantly higher in the informed test than in blind condition (p < 0.05). Overall, Check-All-That-Apply test results confirmed that the deglutinization treatment does not affect the beer sensory profile, even if the information about brewing ingredients and technologies may slightly influence the consumers' sensory perception. Therefore, this result proves that it is possible to produce a marketable GF beer, simply by partially replacing 40% of barley malt with unconventional GF grains, without using enzymes for gluten reduction purpose.

Current strategies for the management of valuable compounds from hops waste for a circular economy

World beer production generates large volumes of waste discharged with every brew. Recently, new methods of reducing and reusing hops waste: hot trub (HT), and brewer-spent hops (BSH) are being exploited to improve the circular economy processes. This review outlines the current achievements in the management of hops waste. Following an in-depth review of various scientific publications, current strategies are discussed as a sustainable alternative to food waste exploitation and an inexpensive source of valuable compounds. Moreover, key aspects concerning the nutritional value of hops waste and the potential to enhance the functional properties of food and beverages are highlighted. Due to their nutritional composition, hops residues may be used as prospective sources of added-value co-products or additives for food enrichment, especially for products rich in fat, or as a new source of vegetable protein.

Activated natural zeolites for beer filtration: A pilot scale approach

A clinoptilolite-rich natural zeolite was tested as a substitute for kieselguhr as a filtering material to eliminate ingredients that cause beer haze formation. Two-grain sizes of micronized natural zeolite were thermally activated to 400 °C, to enhance its adsorption performance and remove the impurities adsorbed in the microporous system of zeolites, followed by their physicochemical characterization. The activated zeolites mixed with four commercial filter aids in different ratios were used for beer filtration at the pilot scale. Most of the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of beers filtered with commercial filter aids and with zeolites were similar. Using zeolite in filtering mixtures significantly reduces the number of microorganisms present in the filtered beer, which can eliminate the necessity of beer sterilization after filtration. The results evidenced that activated natural zeolites, which are cheap materials, are promising candidates as filter aids and can replace kieselguhr without producing any degradation of the beer filtration process.

Species and temperature-dependent fermentative aptitudes of Mrakia genus for innovative brewing

The use of non-conventional brewing yeasts as alternative starters is a very promising approach which received increasing attention from worldwide scientists and brewers. Despite the feasible application of non-conventional yeasts in brewing processes, their regulations and safety assessment by the European Food Safety Authority still represent a bottlenecked hampering their commercial release, at least into EU market. Thus, research on yeast physiology, accurate taxonomic species identification and safety concerns associated with the use of non-conventional yeasts in food chains is needed to develop novel healthier and safer beers. Currently, most of the documented brewing applications catalysed by non-conventional yeasts are associated to ascomycetous yeasts, while little is known about analogous uses of basidiomycetous taxa. Therefore, in order to extend the phenotypic diversity of basidiomycetous brewing yeasts the aim of this investigation is to check the fermentation aptitudes of thirteen Mrakia species in relation to their taxonomic position within the genus Mrakia. The volatile profile, ethanol content and sugar consumption were compared with that produced by a commercial starter for low alcohol beers, namely Saccharomycodes ludwigii WSL 17. The phylogeny of Mrakia genus showed three clusters that clearly exhibited different fermentation aptitudes. Members of M. gelida cluster showed a superior aptitude to produce ethanol, higher alcohols, esters and sugars conversion compared to the members of M. cryoconiti and M. aquatica clusters. Among M. gelida cluster, the strain M. blollopis DBVPG 4974 exhibited a medium flocculation profile, a high tolerance to ethanol and to iso-α-acids, and a considerable production of lactic and acetic acids, and glycerol. In addition, an inverse relationship between fermentative performances and incubation temperature is also displayed by this strain. Possible speculations on the association between the cold adaptation exhibited by M. blollopis DBVPG 4974 and the release of ethanol in the intracellular matrix and in the bordering environment are presented.

Development and Characterization of Probiotic Beers with Saccharomyces boulardii as an Alternative to Conventional Brewer's Yeast

The development of new non-dairy probiotic foods is interesting, given lactose intolerance, milk allergies, and the growing trend of vegetarianism. In this paper, beer has been used as a probiotic delivery matrix, using Saccharomyces boulardii as an alternative to conventional brewer's yeast. The strain was able to grow in worts prepared with hops containing different alpha-acid concentrations, attaining in all cases a final cell concentration above 1·108 cells mL-1. Some differences were found in the physicochemical parameters of beers brewed with S. boulardii compared to those brewed with a standard brewer's yeast. Probiotic beers turned out to be less cloudy, which could help with a possible filtering step; less alcoholic in some cases; a healthier alternative; and with a slightly lower pH, interesting for the reduction of spoilage risk. Thirty volatile compounds were determined in the samples, and, in general, the beers brewed with the probiotic yeast presented significantly higher concentrations for the majority of the studied volatile compounds. In addition, multivariate statistical analysis was successfully performed to differentiate the beers obtained in terms of their volatile composition. Probiotic and standard beers were also subjected to sensory analysis, and they presented similar results in their overall impression.

Production and characterization of anthocyanin-rich beer from black wheat by an efficient isolate Saccharomyces cerevisiae CMS12

Beer is the world's third most popular fermented beverage. It is typically made from malted barley. Tropical countries must import barley from temperate countries for brewing, which is an expensive process. Therefore, it is critical to investigate alternative possible substrates for beer production in order to meet the growing demand for high-nutritional-quality beer. The current study involves the creation of a fermented beverage from anthocyanin-rich black wheat with the help of yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae CMS12, isolated from fruit waste. Characterization (UV, HPLC, NMR, FTIR, and ICPMS) was then performed, as well as a comparative study with white (amber) wheat beer. Further, process parameters optimization included initial sugar concentration, inoculum size, and pH. Black wheat wort contained 568 mg GAE/L total phenolic content, 4.67 mg/L anthocyanin concentration, 6.8% (v/v) alcohol content, and a pH of 4.04. The sensory analysis revealed that black wheat beer was more acceptable than white wheat beer. The developed fermented beverage has enormous commercialization potential.

Brewing a Craft Belgian-Style Pale Ale Using Pichia kudriavzevii 4A as a Starter Culture

There is an expanding market for beer of different flavors. This study aimed to prepare a craft Belgian-style pale ale with a non-Saccharomyces yeast. Pichia kudriavzevii 4A was used as a sole starter culture, and malted barley as the only substrate. The ingredients and brewing process were carefully monitored to ensure the quality and innocuousness of the beverage. During fermentation, the yeast consumed 89.7% of total sugars and produced 13.8% v/v of ethanol. The product was fermented and then aged for 8 days, adjusted to 5% v/v alcohol, and analyzed. There were no traces of mycotoxins, lead, arsenic, methanol, or microbiological contamination that would compromise consumer health. According to the physicochemical analysis, the final ethanol concentration (5.2% v/v) and other characteristics complied with national and international guidelines. The ethyl acetate and isoamyl alcohol present are known to confer sweet and fruity flavors. The sensory test defined the beverage as refreshing and as having an apple and pear flavor, a banana aroma, and a good level of bitterness. The judges preferred it over a commercial reference sample of Belgian-style pale ale made from S. cerevisiae. Hence, P. kudriavzevii 4A has the potential for use in the beer industry.

The Impact of Yeast Encapsulation in Wort Fermentation and Beer Flavor Profile

The food and beverage industry is constantly evolving, and consumers are increasingly searching for premium products that not only offer health benefits but a pleasant taste. A viable strategy to accomplish this is through the altering of sensory profiles through encapsulation of compounds with unique flavors. We used this approach here to examine how brewing in the presence of yeast cells encapsulated in alginate affected the sensory profile of beer wort. Initial tests were conducted for various combinations of sodium alginate and calcium chloride concentrations. Mechanical properties (i.e., breaking force and elasticity) and stability of the encapsulates were then considered to select the most reliable encapsulating formulation to conduct the corresponding alcoholic fermentations. Yeast cells were then encapsulated using 3% (w/v) alginate and 0.1 M calcium chloride as a reticulating agent. Fourteen-day fermentations with this encapsulating formulation involved a Pilsen malt-based wort and four S. cerevisiae strains, three commercially available and one locally isolated. The obtained beer was aged in an amber glass container for two weeks at 4 °C. The color, turbidity, taste, and flavor profile were measured and compared to similar commercially available products. Cell growth was monitored concurrently with fermentation, and the concentrations of ethanol, sugars, and organic acids in the samples were determined via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). It was observed that encapsulation caused significant differences in the sensory profile between strains, as evidenced by marked changes in the astringency, geraniol, and capric acid aroma production. Three repeated batch experiments under the same conditions revealed that cell viability and mechanical properties decreased substantially, which might limit the reusability of encapsulates. In terms of ethanol production and substrate consumption, it was also observed that encapsulation improved the performance of the locally isolated strain.

Experimental Study and Modeling of Beer Dealcoholization via Reverse Osmosis

The goals of the present investigation are to study and to model pale lager beer dealcoholization via reverse osmosis (RO). Samples were dealcoholized at a temperature of 15 ± 1 °C. An Alfa Laval RO99 membrane with a 0.05 m² surface was used. The flux values were measured during the separations. The ethanol content, extract content, bitterness, color, pH, turbidity, and dynamic viscosity of beer and permeate samples were measured. The initial flux values were determined using linear regression. The initial ethanol flux (JEtOH 0) values were calculated from the initial flux values and the ethanol content values. A 2^P full factorial experimental design was applied, and the factors were as follows: transmembrane pressure (TMP): 10, 20, 30 bar; retentate flow rate (Q): 120, 180, 240 L/h; JEtOH 0 was considered as the response. The effect sizes of the significant parameters were calculated. The global maximum of the objective function was found using a self-developed Grid Search code. The changes in the analytical parameters were appropriate. The TMP had a significant effect, while the Q had no significant effect on the JEtOH 0. The effect size of the TMP was 1.20. The optimal value of the factor amounted to TMP = 30 bar. The predicted JEtOH 0 under the above conditions was 121.965 g/m² h.

A comprehensive review of the benefits of drinking craft beer: Role of phenolic content in health and possible potential of the alcoholic fraction

Currently, there is greater production and consumption of craft beer due to its appreciated sensory characteristics. Unlike conventional beer, craft beers provide better health benefits due to their varied and high content of phenolic compounds (PCs) and also due to their alcohol content, but the latter is controversial. The purpose of this paper was to report on the alcoholic fraction and PCs present in craft beers and their influence on health. Despite the craft beer boom, there are few studies on the topic; there is a lot of field to explore. The countries with the most research are the United States > Italy > Brazil > United Kingdom > Spain. The type and amount of PCs in craft beers depends on the ingredients and strains used, as well as the brewing process. It was determined that it is healthier to be a moderate consumer of alcohol than to be a teetotaler or heavy drinker. Thus, studies in vitro, with animal models and clinical trials on cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, diabetes and obesity, osteoporosis and even the immune system suggest the consumption of craft beer. However, more studies with more robust designs are required to obtain more generalizable and conclusive results. Finally, some challenges in the production of craft beer were detailed and some alternative solutions were mentioned.

Dealcoholization of Unfiltered and Filtered Lager Beer by Hollow Fiber Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Nanofiltration Membranes-The Effect of Ion Rejection

Membrane-based beverage dealcoholization is a successful process for producing low- and non-alcoholic beer and represents a fast-growing industry. Polyamide NF and RO membranes are commonly applied for this process. Polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) NF membranes are emerging as industrially relevant species, and their unique properties (usually hollow fiber geometry, high and tunable selectivity, low fouling) underlines the importance of testing them in the food industry as well. To test PEM NF membranes for beer dealcoholization at a small pilot scale, we dealcoholized filtered and unfiltered lager beer with the tightest available commercial polyelectrolyte multilayer NF membrane (NX Filtration dNF40), which has a MWCO = 400 Da, which is quite high for these purposes. Dealcoholization is possible with a reasonable flux (10 L/m²h) at low pressures (5-8.6 bar) with a real extract loss of 15-18% and an alcohol passage of ~100%. Inorganic salt passage is high (which is typical for PEM NF membranes), which greatly affected beer flavor. During the dealcoholization process, the membrane underwent changes which substantially increased its salt rejection values (MgSO₄ passage decreased fourfold) while permeance loss was minimal (less than 10%). According to our sensory evaluation, the process yielded an acceptable tasting beer which could be greatly enhanced by the addition of the lost salts and glycerol.

Novel Saccharomyces cerevisiae × Saccharomyces mikatae Hybrids for Non-alcoholic Beer Production

The popularity of non-alcoholic beers has been increasing over the past few years. Maltose-negative strains of different genera are frequently used to obtain beers of low alcohol content. S. cerevisiae hybrids with other Saccharomyces species offer interesting inherited flavour characteristics; however, their use in non-alcoholic beer production is rare. In this work, we constructed six hybrids of maltose-negative S. cerevisiae parental strains (modified to produce higher amounts of organic acids) and S. mikatae (wild-type). Growth behaviour, osmotolerance and fermentation features of the offspring were compared with parental strains. One hybrid with mitochondrial DNA inherited from both parents was used to produce non-alcoholic beer in which organic metabolites were evaluated by HPLC and HS-SPME-GC-MS. This hybrid produced non-alcoholic beer (≤0.05% (v/v)) with an increased organic acid content, just as its parent S. cerevisiae, but without producing increased amounts of acetic acid. The beer had a neutral aromatic profile with no negative off-flavours, similar to the beer produced by the parent S. mikatae, which was used for the first time to produce non-alcoholic beer. Overall, both parents and hybrid yeast produced non-alcoholic beers with increased amounts of higher alcohols compared with esters.

Commercial craft beers produced in Uruguay: Volatile profile and physicochemical composition

Even beer being the most consumed alcoholic beverage around the world, there is not enough information generated for craft beers produced in Latin America, for either volatile profiles or physicochemical studies. In this work, the chemical and volatile components of ten commercial Blond Ale and nine Indian Pale Ale (IPA) beers from the Uruguayan market were studied using GC-MS. Principal component analysis applied to the data allowed differentiation among the two groups of samples while the volatile compounds and physicochemical parameters responsible for these differences were identified. The physicochemical properties revealed a great diversity between all beer samples even within the same beer style. The main significant differences were obtained for alcohol, polyphenols, bitterness, colour, and pH. Most Blond Ale beer samples were differentiated from IPA ones by raw fermentation aroma compounds such as 1-pentanol, 1-hexanol, hexanoic and isobutyric acids, 4-vinyl guaiacol, and 5,5-dimethyl-2(5H)-furanone. This is the first work that contributes to the knowledge of Uruguayan craft beers. The study also showed the ability of most of the Uruguayan microbreweries to brew Blond Ale and IPA craft beer styles that meet international standards for physicochemical quality.

The Role of Emergent Processing Technologies in Beer Production

The brewing industry is regarded as a fiercely competitive and insatiable sector of activity, driven by the significant technological improvements observed in recent years and the most recent consumer trends pointing to a sharp demand for sensory enhanced beers. Some emergent and sustainable technologies regarding food processing such as pulsed electric fields (PEF), ultrasound (US), thermosonication (TS), high-pressure processing (HPP), and ohmic heating (OH) have shown the potential to contribute to the development of currently employed brewing methodologies by both enhancing the quality of beer and contributing to processing efficiency with a promise of being more environmentally friendly. Some of these technologies have not yet found their way into the industrial brewing process but already show potential to be embedded in continuous thermal and non-thermal unit operations such as pasteurization, boiling and sterilization, resulting in beer with improved organoleptic properties. This review article aims to explore the potential of different advanced processing technologies for industrial application in several key stages of brewing, with particular emphasis on continuous beer production.

Adding functional properties to beer with jasmine tea extract

Hops provide the characteristic bitter taste and attractive aroma to beer; in this study, hops were replaced by jasmine tea extract (JTE) during late-hopping. The addition of JTE improved the beer foam stability 1.52-fold, and increased the polyphenol and organic acid contents. Linalool was the most important aroma compound in hopped (HOPB) and jasmine tea beer (JTB), but other flavor components were markedly different, including dimeric catechins, flavone/flavonol glycosides, and bitter acids and derivatives. Sensory evaluation indicated that addition of JTE increased the floral and fresh-scent aromas, reduced bitterness and improved the organoleptic quality of the beer. The antioxidant capacity of JTB was much higher than that of HOPB. The inhibition of amylase activity by JTB was 30.5% higher than that of HOPB. Functional properties to beer were added by substituting jasmine tea extract for hops during late hopping.

Co-fermentation of non-Saccharomyces yeasts with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum FST 1.7 for the production of non-alcoholic beer

The non-alcoholic beer (NAB) sector has experienced steady growth in recent years, with breweries continuously seeking new ways to fulfil consumer demands. NAB can be produced by limited fermentation of non-Saccharomyces yeasts; however, beer produced in this manner is often critiqued for its sweet taste and wort-like off-flavours due to high levels of residual sugars and lack of flavour metabolites. The use of Lactobacillus in limited co-fermentation with non-Saccharomyces yeasts is a novel approach to produce NABs with varying flavour and aroma characteristics. In this study, lab-scale fermentations of Lachancea fermentati KBI 12.1 and Cyberlindnera subsufficiens C6.1 with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum FST 1.7 were performed and compared to a brewer's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae WLP001. Fermentations were monitored for pH, TTA, extract reduction, alcohol production, and microbial cell count. The final beers were analysed for sugar and organic acid concentration, free amino nitrogen content (FAN), glycerol, and levels of volatile metabolites. The inability of the non-Saccharomyces yeasts to utilise maltotriose as an energy source resulted in extended fermentation times compared to S. cerevisiae WLP001. Co-fermentation of yeasts with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) resulted in a decreased pH, higher TTA and increased levels of lactic acid in the final beers. The overall acceptability of the NABs produced by co-fermentation was higher than or similar to that of the beers fermented with the yeasts alone, indicating that LAB fermentation did not negatively impact the sensory attributes of the beer. C. subsufficiens C6.1 and L. plantarum FST 1.7 NAB was characterised as fruity tasting with the significantly higher ester concentrations masking the wort-like flavours resulting from limited fermentation. NAB produced with L. fermentati KBI12.1 and L. plantarum FST1.7 had decreased levels of the undesirable volatile compound diacetyl and was described as 'fruity' and 'acidic', with the increased sourness masking the sweet, wort-like characteristics of the NAB. Moreover, this NAB was ranked as the most highly acceptable in the sensory evaluation. In conclusion, the limited co-fermentation of non-Saccharomyces yeasts with LAB is a promising strategy for the production of NAB.

Representations of Low(er) Alcohol (Craft) Beer in the United States

Given increasing social interest in health and wellness, rising cultural trends toward sobriety and moderating alcohol intake, and improvements in brewing technology, low(er) alcohol beer is a rising segment in the beer industry for both craft and larger-scale producers. In this paper, we assess the representation of low(er) alcohol beer among craft brewers in the United States. Using a novel quantitatively-informed qualitative analytical approach, we surveyed a randomized, non-representative sample of 400 craft brewery websites in the United States to assess the relative presence of low(er) alcohol beers as well as how these brews are represented by the breweries themselves. To do so, we recorded, both numerically and via website screenshots, the lowest ABV beverage on offer and noted the beer type, the beer name, and the ABV. Ales were the most prominent style of beer on offer, accounting for 62% of the low(er) ABV beers identified. Only 15.5% of the breweries surveyed in this study offered a beer with an ABV of less than 4%; however, an additional 67.9% offered a beer with an ABV of less than 5%. The representations of these low(er) alcohol products focused mostly on taste, health, and demographic indicators.

Effect of Hop Varieties and Forms in the Hopping Process on Non-Alcoholic Beer Quality

The aim of this study was to determine how the hopping technique affects the quality of non-alcoholic beer (NAB). A series of NABs were brewed and tested for basic physicochemical characteristics, profiles of selected volatile compounds, and microbial contamination. The brewing process yielded 13 experimental groups of beers, all of which had an ethanol content of <0.5%v/v. Among the batches brewed with ‘Marynka’ hops, the pellet form was found to provide the highest concentrations of hop-derived volatile compounds, whereas in the ‘Magnum’ groups, the extracts and whole hops proved superior. Humulene and caryophyllene were the primary volatiles in terms of quantity. All the brews were contamination-free—no microbes other than yeast cells were detected. Their microbiological purity was also supported by an assay of beer-defect indicators (volatile compounds), which only showed low levels of acetaldehyde, 1-propanol, 2-methylbutanol, and 3-methylbutanol. The hopping technique deployed was found not to affect the physicochemical parameters of NABs, but did have a significant impact on their volatile compound profile.

Use of Coffee Bean Bagasse Extracts in the Brewing of Craft Beers: Optimization and Antioxidant Capacity

Coffee bean bagasse is one of the main by-products generated by industrial coffee production. This by-product is rich in bioactive compounds such as caffeine, caffeic and chlorogenic acid, and other phenols. The aims of this work are to optimize the extraction conditions of phenolic compounds present in coffee bean bagasse and incorporate them into stout-style craft beers, as well as to determine their effect on the phenol content and antioxidant capacity. The optimal conditions for extraction were 30% ethanol, 30 °C temperature, 17.5 mL of solvent per gram of dry sample, and 30 min of sonication time. These conditions presented a total phenol content of 115.42 ± 1.04 mg GAE/g dry weight (DW), in addition to an antioxidant capacity of 39.64 ± 2.65 μMol TE/g DW in DPPH• and 55.51 ± 6.66 μMol TE/g DW for FRAP. Caffeine, caffeic and chlorogenic acids, and other minor compounds were quantified using HPLC-DAD. The coffee bean bagasse extracts were added to the stout craft beer and increased the concentration of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of the beer. This work is the first report of the use of this by-product added to beers.

In Vitro Digestibility of Minerals and B Group Vitamins from Different Brewers' Spent Grains

Brewers' spent grain (BSG), the main by-product of the brewing industry, is a rich source of minerals and water-soluble vitamins such as thiamine, pyridoxine, niacin, and cobalamin. Bioaccessibility through in vitro digestion is an important step toward the complete absorption of minerals and B group vitamins in the gastrointestinal system. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) together with inductively coupled plasma quadrupole mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used for the quantification of the macro- and micro-minerals. An ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) system coupled with a diode array detector (DAD) was used for B group vitamin identification. Four different industrial BSG samples were used in the present study, with different percentages of malted cereals such as barley, wheat, and degermed corn. Calcium's bioaccessibility was higher in the BSG4 sample composed of 50% malted barley and 50% malted wheat (16.03%), while iron presented the highest bioaccessibility value in the BSG2 sample (30.03%) composed of 65% Pale Ale malt and 35% Vienna malt. On the other hand, vitamin B1 had the highest bioaccessibility value (72.45%) in the BSG3 sample, whilst B6 registered the lowest bioaccessibility value (16.47%) in the BSG2 sample. Therefore, measuring the bioaccessibilty of bioactive BSG compounds before their further use is crucial in assessing their bioavailability.

Investigations into metabolic properties and selected nutritional metabolic byproducts of different non-Saccharomyces yeast strains when producing nonalcoholic beer

Nonalcoholic beers are becoming increasingly popular, in part due to consumers' awareness of a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, consumers are demanding diversification in the product range, which can be offered by producing nonalcoholic beers using non-Saccharomyces yeasts for fermentation to create a wide variety of flavors. So far, little is known about the nutritionally relevant byproducts that these yeasts release during wort fermentation and whether these yeasts can be considered safe for food fermentations. To gain insights into this, the B vitamins of four different nonalcoholic beers fermented with the yeast species Saccharomycodes ludwigii, Cyberlindnera saturnus (two strains), and Kluyveromyces marxianus were analyzed. Furthermore, a total of 16 beers fermented with different non-Saccharomyces yeast strains were analyzed for biogenic amines. Additionally, stress tolerance tests were performed at 37°C and in synthetic human gastric juice in vitro. B vitamins were found in the four nonalcoholic beers in nutritionally relevant amounts so they could serve as a supplement for a balanced diet. Biogenic amines remained below the limit of determination in all 16 beers, and thus likely had no influence, while the stress tolerance tests gave a first indication that seven yeast strains could possibly tolerate the human gastric juice milieu.

Potential of non-Saccharomyces yeast to produce non-alcoholic beer

Recently, non-Saccharomyces yeast have become very popular in wine and beer fermentation. Their interesting abilities introduce novel aromatic profiles to the fermented product. In this study, screening of eight non-Saccharomyces yeast (Starmerella bombicola, Lindnera saturnus, Lindnera jadinii, ZygoSaccharomyces rouxii, Torulaspora delbrueckii, Pichia kluyveri, Candida pulcherrima, and Saccharomycodes ludwigii) revealed their potential in non-alcoholic beer production. Conditions for non-alcoholic beer production were optimised for all strains tested (except T. delbrueckii) with the best results obtained at temperature 10 to 15 °C for maximum of 10 days. Starmerella bombicola, an important industrial producer of biosurfactants, was used for beer production for the first time and was able to produce non-alcoholic beer even at 20 °C after 10 days of fermentation. Aromatic profile of the beer fermented with S. bombicola was neutral with no negative impact on organoleptic properties of the beer. The most interesting organoleptic properties were evaluated in beers fermented with L. jadinii and L. saturnus, which produced banana-flavoured beers with low alcohol content. This work confirmed the suitability of mentioned yeast to produce non-alcoholic beers and could serve as a steppingstone for further investigation.

Effects of Botanical Ingredients Addition on the Bioactive Compounds and Quality of Non-Alcoholic and Craft Beer

Special beers, known as artisanal, are progressively gaining consumer preference, opening up competition, and acquiring more space in the market. Considering that, exploration for new formulations is justified and plants represent a source of novel compounds with promising antioxidant activity for this beer segment. This paper aims to evaluate the current knowledge on the role of botanical ingredients on the final yield of bioactive compounds in special beer, and how these molecules generally affect the sensory profile. Furthermore, the estimated difficulties of implementation, taking into account the new processes and the relative cost, are discussed. The addition of plants to beer could serve the interests of both the industry and consumers, on one hand, by improving the functional properties and offering a unique flavor, and on the other hand by adding variety to the craft beer landscape. This paper provides guidance and future directions for the development of new products to boost the brewing industry. Brewing processes might affect the valuable compounds, especially the phenolic content. Consequently, future studies need to identify new methods for protecting the level of bioactive compounds in special beer and increasing the bio-accessibility, along with optimization of the sensory and technological properties.

Maltose-Negative Yeast in Non-Alcoholic and Low-Alcoholic Beer Production

Although beer is a widely used beverage in many cultures, there is a need for a new drinking alternative in the face of rising issues such as health concerns or weight problems. However, non-alcoholic and low-alcoholic beers (NABLAB) still have some sensory problems that have not been fully remedied today, such as “wort-like”/”potato-like” flavours or a lack of aroma. These defects are due to the lack of alcohol (and the lack of the aldehyde-reducing effect of alcohol fermentation), as well as production techniques. The use of new yeast strains that cannot ferment maltose—the foremost sugar in the wort—is highly promising to produce a more palatable and sustainable NABLAB product because production with these yeast strains can be performed with standard brewery equipment. In the scientific literature, it is clear that interest in the production of NABLAB has increased recently, and experiments have been carried out with maltose-negative yeast strains isolated from many different environments. This study describes maltose-negative yeasts and their aromatic potential for the production of NABLAB by comprehensively examining recent academic studies.

Bergamot and olive extracts as beer ingredients: their influence on nutraceutical and sensory properties

Citrus bergamia and Olea europaea L. variety Carolea are accounted as niche functional food for their high content of bio active compounds. Their extracts were used as adjunct to produce two beers with different styles, Blanche and Weiss, rich in antioxidants for a pool of consumers interested in a healthy lifestyle. The nutraceutical properties of these two beers were compared to Blanche and Weiss without any addition to verify if the beers enriched with natural extracts changed their aromaticity, flavors, and functionality. The antioxidant activity changed in the order: blanche bergamot beer > Weiss olive beer > blanche basal beer > Weiss basal beer. The phenolic profile of bergamot beer was qualitatively and quantitatively the richest in bio-compounds. Pearson’s correlation evidenced that total phenols contained in bergamot and olive beers were positively and significantly correlated with the antioxidant activities and precisely, with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Correlation data evidenced that the bergamot was the beer with the greatest antioxidant activity and bioactive compound amount. This study highlighted as the addition of these natural extracts together with the right productive process improved sensorial beer properties, satisfying consumer taste while potentially increasing the beneficial effects on human health.

Are Lower-Strength Beers Gateways to Higher-Strength Beers? Time Series Analyses of Household Purchases from 64,280 British Households, 2015-2018

Aims

Buying and consuming no- (per cent alcohol by volume, ABV = 0.0%) and low- (ABV = >0.0% and ≤ 3.5%) alcohol beers could reduce alcohol consumption but only if they replace buying and drinking higher-strength beers. We assess whether buying new no- and low-alcohol beers increases or decreases British household purchases of same-branded higher strength beers.

Methods

Generalized linear models and interrupted time series analyses, using purchase data of 64,280 British households from Kantar Worldpanel’s household shopping panel, 2015–2018. We investigate the extent to which the launch of six new no- and low-alcohol beers affected the likelihood and volume of purchases of same-branded higher-strength beers.

Results

Households that had never previously bought a same-branded higher-strength beer but bought a new same-branded no- or low-alcohol beer were less than one-third as likely to go on and newly buy the same-branded higher-strength product. When they did later buy the higher-strength product, they bought half as much volume as households that had not bought a new same-branded no- or low-alcohol beer. For households that had previously purchased a higher-strength beer, the introduction of the new same-branded no- or low-alcohol beer was associated with decreased purchases of the volume of the higher-strength beer by, on average, one-fifth.

Conclusions

The increased availability of new no- and low-alcohol beers does not seem to be a gateway to purchasing same-branded higher-strength beers but rather seems to replace purchases of these higher-strength products. Thus, introduction of new no- and low-alcohol beers could contribute to reducing alcohol consumption.

Buckwheat and Amaranth as Raw Materials for Brewing, a Review

Globally, beer is considered the most-consumed low-alcohol beverage, it ranks third, after water and tea, in the top sales of these drinks. New types of beer are the result of the influence of several factors, including innovations in science and technology, changing requirements for food consumption of the population, competition between producers, promotion of food for health, flavor, and quality, the limited nature of traditional food resource raw materials, and the interest of producers in reducing production costs. Manufacturers are looking for new solutions for obtaining products that meet the requirements of consumers, authentic products of superior quality, with distinctive taste and aroma. This review proposes the use of two pseudocereals as raw materials in the manufacture of beer: buckwheat and amaranth, focusing on the characteristics that recommend them in this regard. Due to their functional and nutraceutical properties, these pseudocereals can improve the quality of beer-a finished product. Additionally, all types of beer obtained from these pseudocereals are recommended for diets with particular nutritional requirements, especially gluten-free diets. Researchers and producers will continue to improve and optimize the sensory and technological properties of the new types of beer obtained from these pseudocereals.

Modeling in Brewing—A Review

Beer production has over a thousand-year tradition, but its development in the present continues with the introduction of new technological and technical solutions. The methods for modeling and optimization in beer production through an applied analytical approach have been discussed in the present paper. For this purpose, the parameters that are essential for the main processes in beer production have been considered—development of malt blends, guaranteeing the main brewing characteristics; obtaining wort through the processes of mashing, lautering and boiling of wort; fermentation and maturation of beer. Data on the mathematical dependences used to describe the different stages of beer production (one-factor experiments, modeling of mixtures, experiment planning, description of the kinetics of microbial growth, etc.) and their limits have been presented, and specific research results of various authors teams working in this field have been cited. The independent variables as well as the objective functions for each stage have been defined. Some new trends in the field of beer production have been considered and possible approaches for their modeling and optimization have been highlighted. The paper suggests a generalized approach to describe the main methods of modeling and optimization, which does not depend on the beer type produced. The proposed approaches can be used to model and optimize the production of different beer types, and the conditions for their application should be consistent with the technological regimes used in each case. The approaches for modeling and optimization of the individual processes have been supported by mathematical dependencies most typical for these stages. Depending on the specific regimes and objectives of the study, these dependencies can be adapted and/or combined into more general mathematical models. Some new trends in the field of beer production have been considered and possible approaches for their modeling and optimization have been highlighted.

Biopreservation of beer: Potential and constraints

The biopreservation of beer, using only antimicrobial agents of natural origin to ensure microbiological stability, is of great scientific and commercial interest. This review article highlights progress in the biological preservation of beer. It describes the antimicrobial properties of beer components and microbiological spoilage risks. It discusses novel biological methods for enhancing beer stability, using natural antimicrobials from microorganisms, plants, and animals to preserve beer, including legal restrictions. The future of beer preservation will involve the skilled knowledge-based exploitation of naturally occurring components in beer, supplementation with generally regarded as safe antimicrobial additives, and mild physical treatments.

Impact of minimum unit pricing on shifting purchases from higher to lower strength beers in Scotland: Controlled interrupted time series analyses, 2015-2020

INTRODUCTION

On 1 May 2018 Scotland introduced a minimum unit price (MUP) of GB50 pence per unit of alcohol (8 g) sold. We analysed household purchase data to assess the impact of MUP in shifting purchases from higher to lower strength beers.

METHODS

Data from Kantar Worldpanel's household shopping panel, with 75 376 households and 4.76 million alcohol purchases, 2015-2020. We undertook interrupted time series analyses of the impact of introducing MUP in Scotland on changes in the proportion of the volume of purchased beer with an alcohol by volume (ABV) ≤3.5% using purchases in England as control. We analysed the moderating impact of the volume of purchased beer with an ABV ≤3.5% on the size of the associated impact of MUP in reducing purchases of grams of alcohol within beer.

RESULTS

MUP was associated with a relative increase in the proportion of the volume of beer purchased with an ABV ≤3.5%, Scotland minus England, of 10.9% (95% CI 10.6-11.1), following a 43.6% (95% CI 40.1-47.1) increase in the volume of beer purchased with an ABV ≤3.5%, and a 9.6% (95% CI 9.4-9.8) decrease in the volume of beer purchased with an ABV >3.5%. MUP was associated with reduced purchases of grams of alcohol within beer by 8% (95% CI 7.8-8.3), increasing to 9.6% (95% CI 9.3-9.9), when accounting for the moderating impact of shifts to lower strength beer.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

MUP seems an effective policy to reduce off-trade purchases of alcohol and encourage shifts to lower strength beers.

Strategies to Improve the Potential Functionality of Fruit-Based Fermented Beverages

It is only recently that fermentation has been facing a dynamic revival in the food industry. Fermented fruit-based beverages are among the most ancient products consumed worldwide, while in recent years special research attention has been granted to assess their functionality. This review highlights the functional potential of alcoholic and non-alcoholic fermented fruit beverages in terms of chemical and nutritional profiles that impact on human health, considering the natural occurrence and enrichment of fermented fruit-based beverages in phenolic compounds, vitamins and minerals, and pro/prebiotics. The health benefits of fruit-based beverages that resulted from lactic, acetic, alcoholic, or symbiotic fermentation and specific daily recommended doses of each claimed bioactive compound were also highlighted. The latest trends on pre-fermentative methods used to optimize the extraction of bioactive compounds (maceration, decoction, and extraction assisted by supercritical fluids, microwave, ultrasound, pulsed electric fields, high pressure homogenization, or enzymes) are critically assessed. As such, optimized fermentation processes and post-fermentative operations, reviewed in an industrial scale-up, can prolong the shelf life and the quality of fermented fruit beverages.

Is Buying and Drinking Zero and Low Alcohol Beer a Higher Socio-Economic Phenomenon? Analysis of British Survey Data, 2015-2018 and Household Purchase Data 2015-2020

Zero and low alcohol products, particularly beer, are gaining consideration as a method to reduce consumption of ethanol. We do not know if this approach is likely to increase or decrease health inequalities. The aim of the study was to determine if the purchase and consumption of zero and low alcohol beers differs by demographic and socio-economic characteristics of consumers. Based on British household purchase data from 79,411 households and on British survey data of more than 104,635 adult (18+) respondents, we estimated the likelihood of buying and drinking zero (ABV = 0.0%) and low alcohol (ABV > 0.0% and ≤ 3.5%) beer by a range of socio-demographic characteristics. We found that buying and consuming zero alcohol beer is much more likely to occur in younger age groups, in more affluent households, and in those with higher social grades, with gaps in buying zero alcohol beer between households in higher and lower social grades widening between 2015 and 2020. Buying and drinking low alcohol beer had less consistent relationships with socio-demographic characteristics, but was strongly driven by households that normally buy and drink the most alcohol. Common to many health-related behaviours, it seems that it is the more affluent that lead the way in choosing zero or low alcohol products. Whilst the increased availability of zero and low alcohol products might be a useful tool to reduce overall ethanol consumption in the more socially advantageous part of society, it may be less beneficial for the rest of the population. Other evidence-based alcohol policy measures that lessen health inequalities, need to go hand-in-hand with those promoting the uptake of zero and low alcohol beer.

Production, Consumption, and Potential Public Health Impact of Low- and No-Alcohol Products: Results of a Scoping Review

Switching from higher strength to low- and no-alcohol products could result in consumers buying and drinking fewer grams of ethanol. We undertook a scoping review with systematic searches of English language publications between 1 January 2010 and 17 January 2021 using PubMed and Web of Science, covering production, consumption, and policy drivers related to low- and no-alcohol products. Seventy publications were included in our review. We found no publications comparing a life cycle assessment of health and environmental impacts between alcohol-free and regular-strength products. Three publications of low- and no-alcohol beers found only limited penetration of sales compared with higher strength beers. Two publications from only one jurisdiction (Great Britain) suggested that sales of no- and low-alcohol beers replaced rather than added to sales of higher strength beers. Eight publications indicated that taste, prior experiences, brand, health and wellbeing issues, price differentials, and overall decreases in the social stigma associated with drinking alcohol-free beverages were drivers of the purchase and consumption of low- and no-alcohol beers and wines. Three papers indicated confusion amongst consumers with respect to the labelling of low- and no-alcohol products. One paper indicated that the introduction of a minimum unit price in both Scotland and Wales favoured shifts in purchases from higher- to lower-strength beers. The evidence base for the potential beneficial health impact of low- and no-alcohol products is very limited and needs considerable expansion. At present, the evidence base could be considered inadequate to inform policy.

Assessment of the Suitability of Aromatic and High-Bitter Hop Varieties (Humulus lupulus L.) for Beer Production in the Conditions of the Małopolska Vistula Gorge Region

The aim of the study was to assess the yield of cones and the quality of six hop varieties (“Iunga”, “Lubelski”, “Sybilla”, “Magnum”, “Lomik”, “Marynka”) in terms of their suitability for beer production, under the conditions of the Małopolska Vistula Gorge Region (21°53′ E; 51°16′ N) (2015–2017). The scope of the research included the determination of the yield of cones and their physicochemical properties, as well as determination of the contents of hop resins and essential oils. In bitter varieties, the ratio of alpha-acids to beta-acids was stable, while, in aromatic varieties, it was variable. In the essential oils of the studied hop varieties, compounds with myrcene and α-humulene were identified and dominated the profiles. “Iunga”, “Sybilla”, “Lubelski”, and “Lomik” were rich in monoterpene hydrocarbons, mainly myrcene, while there was a bit more α-humulene in the “Marynka” variety. “Magnum” was characterized by an even distribution of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. The “Magnum variety turned out the most useful for the brewing industry in this region. The Małopolska Vistula Gorge Region is a region where hops not only achieve a high yield of cones, but also good-quality. The bitterness and aroma content of the hops in this region is high.

Role of Yeasts in the Brewing Process: Tradition and Innovation

Nowadays, in the beer sector, there is a wide range of products, which differ for the technologies adopted, raw materials used, and microorganisms involved in the fermentation processes. The quality of beer is directly related to the fermentation activity of yeasts that, in addition to the production of alcohol, synthesize various compounds that contribute to the definition of the compositional and organoleptic characteristics. The microbrewing phenomenon (craft revolution) and the growing demand for innovative and specialty beers has stimulated researchers and brewers to select new yeast strains possessing particular technological and metabolic characteristics. Up until a few years ago, the selection of starter yeasts used in brewing was exclusively carried out on strains belonging to the genus Saccharomyces. However, some non-Saccharomyces yeasts have a specific enzymatic activity that can help to typify the taste and beer aroma. These yeasts, used as a single or mixed starter with Saccharomyces strains, represent a new biotechnological resource to produce beers with particular properties. This review describes the role of Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces yeasts in brewing, and some future biotechnological perspectives.

Dry-Hop Creep Potential of Various Saccharomyces Yeast Species and Strains

Previous research has shown that hops contain enzymes able to hydrolyze unfermentable dextrins into fermentable sugars when added during the dry-hopping process. In the presence of live yeast, these additional fermentable sugars can lead to an over-attenuation of the beer; a phenomenon known as “hop creep”. This study attempts to analyze the effect of different Saccharomyces yeast species and strains on hop creep, with the intent to find an ability to mitigate the effects of dry-hop creep by using a specific yeast. Thirty different yeast species and strains were chosen from commercial and academic collections and propagated for pilot fermentations. Brews were performed at the Anheuser-Busch Research Brewery (1.8 hL, 10 °P, 20 IBU) at UC Davis and split to 40 L cylindroconical fermenters, with one fermenter in each yeast pair receiving 10 g/L Centennial hop pellets towards the end of fermentation. Standard analytical measurements were performed over the course of fermentation, with real degrees of fermentation (RDF) and extract measured on an Anton Paar alcolyzer. In order to preemptively determine the amount of hop creep to be experienced with each unknown fermentation, bench-top fermentations with 20 g/L dry-hops were performed concurrently and compared to the pilot scale fermentations. RDF was significantly higher (p < 0.01) on dry-hopped than non-dry-hopped fermentations beginning two days post dry-hopping to the end of fermentation, with the exceptions of SafAle™ BE-134, a S. cerevisiae var. diastaticus, and UCDFST 11-510, a S. mikatae. No apparent correlation between flocculation and increased RDF was shown in dry-hopped treatments. pH was significantly different between the dry-hopped and non-hopped fermentations (p < 0.05 one day post dry-hop, p < 0.01 for all subsequent days); this may have impacted on additional attenuation. No yeasts in this study indicated their use for mitigation of dry-hop creep, but this is a first look at beer fermentation for some of the chosen yeasts. The results also present a new perspective on how hop creep varies in fermentation.

Maize and Sorghum as Raw Materials for Brewing, a Review

Brewing is among the oldest biotechnological processes, in which barley malt and—to a lesser extent—wheat malt are used as conventional raw materials. Worldwide, 85–90% of beer production is now produced with adjuvants, with wide variations on different continents. This review proposes the use of two other cereals as raw materials in the manufacture of beer, corn and sorghum, highlighting the advantages it recommends in this regard and the disadvantages, so that they are removed in technological practice. The use of these cereals as adjuvants in brewing has been known for a long time. Recently, research has intensified regarding the use of these cereals (including in the malted form) to obtain new assortments of beer from 100% corn malt or 100% sorghum malt. There is also great interest in obtaining gluten-free beer assortments, new nonalcoholic or low-alcohol beer assortments, and beers with an increased shelf life, by complying with current food safety regulations, under which maize and sorghum can be used in manufacturing recipes.