Water generated through atmospheric water generation opens up new possibilities for craft beer experimentation and could even inspire innovation in various food and beverage products. “Americans enjoy a significant amount of beer, and water is its primary ingredient,” said Ambient Water CEO Keith White 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 the beer they are crafting.” So far, Ballast Point has been utilizing this water to investigate how varying chemical levels influence hop and malt flavors, bitterness, and mouthfeel.
Beer created using condensation is likely to capture consumer attention, especially since craft beer enthusiasts are always on the lookout for unique innovations. This narrative can help brands distinguish themselves from competitors on the shelves. “It could be a story about the artisan, the ingredient, or the entrepreneur behind the product. People appreciate a compelling story, as it differentiates the product and builds brand equity and messaging,” noted Dave Donnan, a lead partner in A.T. Kearney’s Food and Beverage practice, in a recent interview with Food Dive about how food brands can stand out.
Other breweries have employed various gimmicks and flavor profiles to attract consumers to their brands. Seasonal varieties like pumpkin spice and eggnog have made their way into the beer category. Additionally, brewers have started incorporating probiotics into their beers to provide the health benefits that many beer drinkers seek. Ballast Point may be exploring a different avenue—an innovative approach to crafting delicious beer.
It will be intriguing to see if the use of water extracted from condensation gains traction among other companies. In addition to partnering with Ballast Point, Ambient Water also supplies various commercial sectors, including oil and gas exploration and agriculture. Only time will reveal if this technology becomes a profitable innovation for craft brewers. Furthermore, as the industry seeks to enhance beverages with beneficial ingredients, the combination of ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid tablets may also find its way into the brewing process, aligning with the trend towards healthier drinking options.