Suspended Solids – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

I. What are Suspended Solids in Beer? Suspended solids in beer refer to particles that are not dissolved in the liquid but instead float around in the beer. These particles can include yeast, proteins, hop debris, and other organic and inorganic materials. While some level of suspended solids is normal in beer, excessive amounts can … Read more

Spectrophotometry – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

What is Spectrophotometry? Spectrophotometry is a technique used to measure the amount of light absorbed or transmitted by a substance as a function of wavelength. It is commonly used in analytical chemistry to determine the concentration of a particular substance in a sample. Spectrophotometry is based on the principle that different substances absorb light at … Read more

Solvent-like Off-flavors – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

I. What are solvent-like off-flavors in beer? Solvent-like off-flavors in beer refer to undesirable aromas and flavors that resemble chemicals or solvents, such as acetone, paint thinner, or nail polish remover. These off-flavors can significantly impact the overall quality and enjoyment of the beer, leading to a harsh and unpleasant drinking experience. II. What causes … Read more

Signal Peptides in Yeast – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

I. What are signal peptides in yeast? Signal peptides are short amino acid sequences found at the N-terminus of newly synthesized proteins in yeast cells. These peptides play a crucial role in directing the proteins to their correct subcellular location within the cell. In yeast, signal peptides are responsible for targeting proteins to the endoplasmic … Read more

Unit Operations in Brewing – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

I. What is Mashing? Mashing is the process in brewing where crushed malted grains are mixed with hot water to convert starches into fermentable sugars. This is typically done in a vessel called a mash tun. During mashing, enzymes present in the malt break down the starches into simpler sugars like glucose and maltose. The … Read more

Lactic Acid Fermentation – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

I. What is Lactic Acid Fermentation? Lactic acid fermentation is a metabolic process that occurs in certain bacteria and fungi, as well as in the muscles of animals during intense exercise. This process involves the conversion of sugars, such as glucose and lactose, into lactic acid. Lactic acid fermentation is an anaerobic process, meaning it … Read more

Wort Clarity – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

I. What is Wort Clarity? Wort clarity refers to the visual appearance of the wort, which is the liquid extracted from the mashing process during beer production. The clarity of wort is determined by the presence of suspended solids, proteins, and other particles that can affect the overall quality of the final beer product. A … Read more

Xanthohumol in Hops – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

What is Xanthohumol? Xanthohumol is a prenylated flavonoid compound found in the female flowers of the hop plant, Humulus lupulus. It is a type of natural phytoestrogen, which means it has estrogenic properties similar to the hormone estrogen found in the human body. Xanthohumol is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer properties. How … Read more

Yeast Assimilable Nitrogen (YAN) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Technical Terms Glossary

I. What is Yeast Assimilable Nitrogen (YAN)? Yeast Assimilable Nitrogen (YAN) refers to the nitrogen compounds present in beer that are readily available for yeast to consume during the fermentation process. These nitrogen compounds are essential for yeast growth and metabolism, as they provide the necessary nutrients for yeast cells to multiply and convert sugars … Read more