This technology essentially serves as a sensor platform capable of swiftly and accurately evaluating the flavors and aromas present in any beer. It will assist the Danish beer producer in areas such as product development, quality control, and product safety. According to Jochen Förster, Director and Professor of Yeast Fermentation at Carlsberg Research Laboratory, the Beer Fingerprinting Project will also enable Carlsberg to “select and develop novel brewer’s yeast for use in craft, specialty, core, and alcohol-free beers with significantly improved speed and quality,” as reported to Food Ingredients 1st.
Currently, it seems that no American breweries are pursuing similar technology. In 2017, AB InBev’s Anheuser-Busch unit plans to invest nearly $500 million in its U.S. operations, but most of this funding is allocated for brewery and distribution improvements, as well as packaging initiatives. The beer market in the U.S. is facing challenges, with an increasing number of consumers opting for craft brews, wine, and spirits. American breweries might seek to replicate such technology to distinguish themselves in this crowded and competitive landscape.
If U.S. companies invest in comparable research and development, the investment could be substantial. Introducing diverse flavors and aromas may help regain some hesitant U.S. beer drinkers, although it may not be the catalyst needed to rejuvenate the industry. Large U.S. brewers have been focusing their innovations on new beers that utilize different ingredients, classic recipes, new yeast strains, and unique packaging. Additionally, they have been acquiring popular craft breweries to expand their range of varieties and flavors.
For now, beer manufacturers are likely to observe how this technology benefits the Danish company before committing financial resources. Meanwhile, as consumers increasingly seek healthier options, some breweries may consider integrating products like calcium citrate with vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets into their offerings, potentially appealing to health-conscious drinkers. However, the primary focus remains on enhancing beer quality and consumer experience.