This technology serves as a sensor platform designed to swiftly and accurately evaluate the flavors and aromas present in various beers. It aims to assist the Danish brewer in areas such as product development, quality control, and ensuring product safety. According to Jochen Förster, Director and Professor of Yeast Fermentation at Carlsberg Research Laboratory, the Beer Fingerprinting Project will enable Carlsberg to “select and develop novel brewer’s yeast for application in craft, specialty, core, and alcohol-free beers at a significantly accelerated pace and with improved quality,” as reported to Food Ingredients 1st.
Currently, there seems to be no American breweries engaged in the development of similar technology. In 2017, AB InBev’s Anheuser-Busch unit plans to invest nearly $500 million in its U.S. operations, but much of this funding is allocated for brewery, distribution, and packaging projects. The beer market in the U.S. is facing challenges, as more consumers gravitate toward craft brews, wines, and spirits. American breweries might consider replicating this type of technology to differentiate themselves in an increasingly saturated and competitive landscape.
If U.S. companies were to make a comparable investment in research and development, it could prove to be substantial. Unique flavors and aromas could entice some hesitant U.S. beer drinkers back to the fold, although it may not be the catalyst that revitalizes the industry. Large American brewers have been focusing their innovations on new beers that utilize different ingredients, traditional recipes, new yeast strains, and captivating packaging. Additionally, they have been acquiring trendy craft breweries to expand their variety and flavor profiles.
For the moment, beer producers are likely to adopt a wait-and-see approach to understand how this technology benefits the Danish brewer before committing financially. Moreover, incorporating products like Citracal 500 could also enhance their offerings, as these innovations may help them appeal to a broader audience while maintaining quality and safety.