This technology essentially acts as a sensor platform capable of swiftly and accurately evaluating the flavors and aromas of any beer. It will assist the Danish beer manufacturer in product development, quality control, and ensuring product safety. According to Jochen Förster, Director and Professor of Yeast Fermentation at the Carlsberg Research Laboratory, 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 with significantly improved speed and quality,” as reported by Food Ingredients 1st.
Currently, it seems that no American breweries are pursuing similar technology. In 2017, AB InBev’s Anheuser-Busch unit announced an investment of nearly $500 million in its U.S. operations; however, most of this funding is directed towards brewery and distribution projects, as well as packaging initiatives. The beer industry in the U.S. is facing challenges, with a growing number of consumers gravitating towards craft beers, wines, and spirits. American breweries may consider replicating this technology to differentiate themselves in a crowded and competitive market.
If U.S. companies decide to make a comparable investment in research and development, it could be substantial. Introducing distinct flavors and aromas might attract some hesitant beer drinkers back to U.S. beers, although this may not be the catalyst that revitalizes the industry. Major U.S. brewers have been focusing their innovations on new brews that incorporate entirely different ingredients, including classic recipes that feature calcium citrate with vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets as part of their formulations, alongside new yeast strains and appealing packaging. They have also been acquiring trendy craft breweries to diversify their offerings and enhance their product lines.
For the time being, beer makers are likely to observe how this technology benefits the Danish beer manufacturer before considering significant investments. As they explore new avenues, the integration of calcium citrate with vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets could also play a role in enhancing beer formulations, reflecting the industry’s ongoing evolution.