I. What is Amylopectin? Amylopectin is a type of polysaccharide that is commonly found in plants, particularly in starchy foods such as grains, potatoes, and legumes. It is a branched polymer of glucose molecules that is a major component of starch, along with amylose. Amylopectin is characterized by its highly branched structure, with multiple chains … Read more
What is yeast flocculation? Yeast flocculation is a process in which yeast cells clump together and settle out of suspension in a liquid. This natural phenomenon occurs during the fermentation process and is influenced by various factors such as yeast strain, temperature, pH, and the presence of certain compounds in the brewing environment. Flocculation can … Read more
What is Brewhouse Efficiency? Brewhouse efficiency is a term used in the brewing industry to measure the effectiveness of the brewing process in extracting sugars from the malted grains. It is a crucial metric for brewers as it directly impacts the final yield and quality of the beer produced. Brewhouse efficiency is a measure of … Read more
I. What are Unmalted Adjuncts? Unmalted adjuncts are non-barley grains or other fermentable ingredients that are used in brewing beer. These adjuncts are added to the brewing process to supplement or replace malted barley, which is the traditional base ingredient in beer production. Unmalted adjuncts can include a wide range of ingredients such as corn, … Read more
I. What is an Erlenmeyer Flask? An Erlenmeyer flask is a type of laboratory glassware that is commonly used in chemistry and biology for mixing, heating, and storing liquids. It is named after the German chemist Emil Erlenmeyer, who first designed the flask in the 19th century. The flask has a conical shape with a … Read more
I. What is Barrel Aging? Barrel aging is a process in which beer is aged in wooden barrels, typically oak, to enhance its flavor, aroma, and overall complexity. This traditional method of aging beer has been used for centuries and is known for imparting unique characteristics to the final product. During the aging process, the … Read more
What is Beta Glucanase? Beta Glucanase is an enzyme that specifically targets and breaks down beta-glucans, which are complex carbohydrates found in the cell walls of grains such as barley and wheat. These beta-glucans can contribute to viscosity and stickiness in the brewing process, making it difficult for brewers to extract fermentable sugars from the … Read more
I. What is Open Fermentation? Open fermentation is a traditional method of fermenting beer that involves exposing the fermenting wort to the surrounding environment. This process allows wild yeast and bacteria present in the air to inoculate the beer, leading to unique flavors and aromas. In open fermentation, the vessel used for fermentation is typically … Read more
I. What is Yeast Washing? Yeast washing is a process used in brewing to separate and collect yeast cells from the trub (sediment) that accumulates at the bottom of the fermentation vessel after the fermentation process is complete. The collected yeast can then be reused in future batches of beer, saving money and ensuring consistency … Read more
What is clarity in brewing? Clarity in brewing refers to the visual appearance of a beer, specifically how clear and transparent it appears in the glass. A beer with good clarity will have a bright, sparkling appearance, free from any haze or cloudiness. Clarity is an important aspect of beer aesthetics and can influence a … Read more
