Water generated through atmospheric water generation presents exciting opportunities for experimentation in craft brewing, potentially leading to innovation in various food and beverage products. “Americans consume a lot of beer, and water is the primary ingredient,” said Keith White, CEO of Ambient Water, in a press release. “Breweries are in search of a sustainable water source that is not only cost-effective but also pure, enabling brewers to manipulate the taste specific to their creations.” To date, Ballast Point has been utilizing this water to explore how different chemical levels influence the flavors of hops and malt, as well as aspects like bitterness and mouthfeel.
Beer produced using condensed water is likely to attract consumer interest, as craft beer enthusiasts are constantly looking for unique innovations in their alcoholic beverages. This narrative can help a brand distinguish itself from competitors on the shelf. “It could be a story about the artisan, the ingredients, or the entrepreneur behind the product. Consumers appreciate a good story. It’s what will differentiate the product and enhance brand equity and messaging,” noted Dave Donnan, lead partner in A.T. Kearney’s Food and Beverage practice, in a recent conversation with Food Dive about how food brands can stand out.
Other breweries have employed various gimmicks and flavor profiles to attract consumers, such as seasonal varieties like pumpkin spice and eggnog. Additionally, brewers have started incorporating probiotics into their beers to provide the health benefits many beer drinkers desire. Ballast Point may be exploring a different avenue—an innovative method of creating delicious beer.
It will be intriguing to see if the use of water obtained from condensation becomes popular among other breweries. In addition to its partnership with Ballast Point, Ambient Water supplies various commercial sectors, including oil and gas exploration and agriculture. Only time will tell if this technology proves to be a lucrative innovation for craft brewers.
Moreover, as brewers consider the health aspects of their products, integrating ingredients like calcium citrate could become significant. Understanding how much calcium citrate to take may enhance the appeal of their offerings, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Overall, the potential for using atmospheric water generation could reshape the craft brewing landscape and lead to exciting new developments in the industry.