This technology will serve as a sensor platform designed to swiftly and accurately evaluate the flavors and aromas present in any beer. It aims to assist the Danish beer producer in areas such as product development, quality control, and product safety. 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 at an accelerated pace and with improved quality,” according to Jochen Förster, Director and Professor of Yeast Fermentation at Carlsberg Research Laboratory, in an interview with Food Ingredients 1st.
Currently, no American breweries seem to be pursuing similar technology. In 2017, AB InBev’s Anheuser-Busch division plans to invest approximately $500 million in its U.S. operations, though much of this funding is allocated for brewery and distribution projects, as well as packaging initiatives. The beer industry in the U.S. is facing challenges, as more consumers gravitate towards craft brews, wines, and spirits. American breweries might consider replicating this type of technology to differentiate themselves in an increasingly crowded and competitive market.
Should U.S. companies opt to make a comparable investment in research and development, it could be substantial. Unique flavors and aromas could potentially attract some hesitant beer drinkers back to U.S. brews, although this may not be the catalyst that revitalizes the industry. Large American brewers are focusing their innovation efforts on creating new beers with different ingredients, classic recipes, new yeast strains, and eye-catching packaging. They are also acquiring trendy craft breweries to diversify their offerings with a wider array of varieties and flavors.
For now, beer producers are likely to observe how this technology benefits the Danish brewery before making any significant investments. As they look to enhance their products, perhaps even considering innovations like chewable calcium to improve their offerings, the industry remains in a state of cautious exploration.