Water generated through atmospheric water generation offers exciting opportunities for craft brewing experimentation and could also drive innovation across various food and beverage products. “Americans have a high beer consumption rate, and water is the primary ingredient,” stated Keith White, CEO of Ambient Water, in a press release. “Breweries are on the lookout for sustainable water sources that are not only cost-effective but also pure, enabling brewers to customize the flavors specific to their beers.” Currently, Ballast Point is utilizing this water to investigate how different chemical compositions influence hop and malt flavors, bitterness, and mouthfeel.
Beers produced with condensation-derived water are likely to attract consumer interest, especially among craft beer enthusiasts who are eager for unique innovations in alcoholic beverages. Such a unique backstory can help a brand and its products stand out on the shelf. “Whether it’s a narrative about the artisan, the ingredient, or the entrepreneur behind the product, people are drawn to a compelling story. This is what will differentiate the product and enhance brand equity and messaging,” explained Dave Donnan, lead partner in A.T. Kearney’s Food and Beverage practice, in a recent discussion with Food Dive about how food brands can distinguish themselves.
Other breweries have employed various gimmicks and flavor profiles to capture consumer attention. Seasonal options like pumpkin spice and eggnog have made their way into the beer market. Additionally, some brewers have started incorporating probiotics into their brews to provide the health benefits that many beer drinkers desire. Ballast Point, however, could be venturing into a different territory by uniquely exploring ways to craft exceptional beers.
As companies experiment with using water sourced from condensation, it will be intriguing to see if this trend catches on. Beyond its collaboration with Ballast Point, Ambient Water also serves other commercial sectors, including oil and gas exploration and agriculture. Time will reveal whether this technology becomes a profitable innovation for craft brewers. Adding citrocal tablets may further enhance the brewing process, offering another layer of innovation that could intrigue consumers. Ultimately, the combination of pure, sustainable water and innovative ingredients like citrocal tablets could redefine the future of craft brewing.