Top Beers To Try This Summer 

At the heart of this transformation is sustainable glass packaging—a material that seamlessly combines luxury and environmental responsibility. Premium spirits and fine wines are striving to compete while minimizing their ecological footprint, leading many brands to favour sustainable glass packaging as a means to honour tradition and showcase responsible business practices.

The Environmental Edge of Sustainable Glass Packaging

When discussing eco-friendly packaging, glass stands out as one of the most sustainable options available. It is infinitely recyclable, non-toxic, and inert, made from largely natural materials. Its inert nature prevents any chemical interaction between the glass and the alcohol, ensuring the product’s flavor and quality remain unaltered over time.

In recent years, premium alcohol brands have been investing in sustainable glass packaging, prioritizing glass bottles due to their recyclability and lower carbon footprint—especially when produced using renewable energy sources. The use of solar or wind power in glass production significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels, thereby minimizing greenhouse gas emissions associated with the manufacturing process.

Beyond recyclability, glass is also a key player in the refill and reuse economy. Many luxury alcohol brands are now offering returnable glass bottle schemes, encouraging consumers to return their empty bottles for sterilization and reuse—an approach that significantly cuts down on waste.

Glass: The Ultimate Symbol of Luxury

Beyond sustainability, glass bottles are an irreplaceable element of luxury branding. From the weight when held to the clarity and luster of the material, glass enhances the sensory experience of luxury spirits. The cool, smooth surface of a handcrafted glass bottle and the satisfying ‘clink’ when toasting all contribute to a heightened sense of indulgence.

Summer Wines

Consumers generally associate glass packaging with higher quality products, making it the logical choice for luxury spirits, fine wines, and craft liquors.

The transparency, brilliance, and adaptability of sustainable glass packaging allow brands to craft intricate, custom-designed bottles that symbolize exclusivity and sophistication. Beyond its visual elegance, the weight and feel of glass convey a sense of substance and prestige, reinforcing its premium nature in a way that plastic or metal simply cannot replicate.

Additionally, glass has long been associated with a sense of legacy, with some of the world’s oldest and most renowned alcohol brands relying on it for centuries. This deep-rooted tradition seamlessly connects modern sustainability efforts with timeless craftsmanship, making sustainable glass packaging the definitive choice for luxury alcohol brands.

Trends in Sustainable Glass Packaging

With sustainability becoming a core focus for luxury brands, innovations in sustainable glass packaging are reshaping the premium alcohol sector.

Lightweight Glass Bottles: Advancements in manufacturing processes have enabled companies to produce glass bottles with reduced raw material usage while maintaining strength and durability. This innovation decreases both production emissions and transportation costs, directly translating to lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

100% Recycled Glass Bottles: Prominent distilleries and wineries are increasingly utilizing entirely recycled glass, minimizing reliance on virgin raw materials and significantly lowering carbon emissions. These bottles undergo a rigorous, multi-stage cleaning process to ensure they meet the highest hygiene standards.

Low-Emission Glass Production: A growing number of manufacturers are adopting electric furnaces powered by renewable energy sources, further diminishing the carbon footprint of glass production.

Refillable and Returnable Glass Bottles: The circular economy model is becoming more prevalent, with luxury brands promoting the return of empty bottles for cleaning and reuse—a practice already gaining popularity in upscale hospitality settings.

A Responsible Future for Luxury Alcohol

Luxury is no longer just about exclusivity—it is about responsibility. Consumers are increasingly aligning their purchasing decisions with sustainability values, and premium alcohol brands must adapt to meet these expectations.

By embracing sustainable glass packaging, brands can continue delivering high-quality experiences to discerning consumers while reducing their environmental impact. This shift not only benefits the planet but also strengthens consumer trust and brand loyalty.

Ultimately, for the confluence of luxury and sustainability in premium alcohol packaging, sustainable glass packaging emerges as the definitive solution.

This article has been written by Mr. Rajesh Khosla, Chief Executive Officer, AGI Greenpac Limited, exclusively for Brewer World

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The Alcohol Market of India: From Vineyards to Breweries

The Current Landscape of Beverage Packaging

Glass has long been recognized for its sustainability due to its recyclability and inert nature. However, the beverage sector has historically relied on diverse materials, including plastics and aluminum. While these materials have practical applications, single-use plastics, in particular, pose a significant environmental challenge.

Today’s consumers are actively engaged in this conversation. According to a 2024 global survey, over 70% of consumers consider a product’s packaging before making a purchase. They expect brands to prioritize recyclable, reusable, and eco-friendly packaging solutions.

To meet these expectations, beverage manufacturers are innovating with alternative materials, refining packaging designs, and advancing recycling processes.

Key Trends in Sustainable Beverage Packaging

The beverage packaging industry is undergoing a profound transformation, with sustainability taking center stage alongside profitability. This shift is fueled by evolving consumer demands, stricter regulations, and the emergence of cutting-edge materials and technologies.

1. Glass Reinvented

Glass, a timeless material, is being reimagined. Lightweight glass containers reduce energy consumption during production and transportation without compromising durability. Additionally, incorporating recycled glass (cullet) significantly minimizes the environmental footprint of glass beverage packaging.

2. Biodegradable and Compostable Materials

Plant-based materials like corn starch and sugarcane are gaining traction in non-alcoholic beverage packaging. These materials naturally decompose, reducing waste and environmental impact.

3. Advanced Recycling Technologies

Chemical recycling innovations are breaking down plastics into reusable monomers, addressing challenges with hard-to-recycle materials. These technologies aim to close the loop in the beverage packaging lifecycle.

4. Carbon-Neutral Packaging

Achieving carbon neutrality across the packaging lifecycle is a growing priority. Manufacturers are leveraging renewable energy sources, optimizing supply chains, and offsetting emissions to minimize environmental impacts.

5. Minimalist Design

The “less is more” approach to beverage packaging eliminates unnecessary components, reduces material use, and simplifies recycling processes.

6. Zero-Waste Packaging

Circular systems like edible packaging and fully compostable materials are gaining momentum. These innovations aim to eliminate waste entirely from beverage packaging.

7. Reusable Packaging Models

Refillable and returnable containers are becoming more mainstream, supported by infrastructure advancements. Deposit-return schemes incentivize consumers to return bottles and cans for reuse.

8. Digital Innovations

Smart packaging technologies, such as QR codes and NFC chips, enhance transparency by allowing consumers to trace the lifecycle of their beverage packaging. Blockchain is also being used to verify the sustainability of raw materials.

The Role of Regulations and Consumer Preferences

Legislative policies are shaping the future of beverage packaging. Extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes are holding manufacturers accountable for their packaging’s entire lifecycle. These regulations, including mandates for minimum recycled content and bans on single-use plastics, push the industry toward sustainable practices.

Award Winning Indian Wine by Myne Wine

Simultaneously, informed consumers are driving change. Social media amplifies their demand for transparency and eco-conscious solutions, urging brands to adopt sustainable beverage packaging and communicate their efforts effectively.

Collaborations among manufacturers, policymakers, and environmental organizations are crucial for scalable solutions. Initiatives like standardized recyclability labels and enhanced recycling infrastructure are pivotal to meaningful progress.

A Sustainable Future: Leading the Beverage Packaging Evolution

As 2025 unfolds, the beverage industry’s collaborative efforts are proving that sustainability and innovation are not mutually exclusive. By prioritizing the planet alongside profitability, manufacturers are setting a benchmark for other sectors to follow.

This journey toward sustainable packaging is far from over. The strides made so far reflect a commitment to creating a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations. The industry’s dedication to redefining packaging transcends consumer demands and regulatory mandates, marking a pivotal step toward a greener future.

This article has been written by Rajesh Khosla, CEO, AGI Greenpac exclusively for Brewer World

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India’s Latest Premium Beer: Amstel Grande

ICB’s offerings are steeped in deep research into the culinary diversity, cultural legacy and richness of India. The microbrewery has set up a dedicated research and development (R&D) center in Belgium for driving beer innovations, while its beers are crafted by master brewer Antonio Rodriguez-Giralt, a celebrated name in the global brewing circles. One of its signature brews will be a range of premium non-alcoholic beers named Ramanujan, a homage to India’s legendary Math genius. 

“ICB-Indian Craft Brewery is a groundbreaking endeavor to reinvent the craft beer experience in India by connecting with our country’s roots and our rich cultural and culinary heritage. With our dedicated craftsmanship and a team of seasoned brewmasters, including a master brewer from Costa Rica, and culinary experts, including a former master chef at ITC Hotels’s flagship restaurant, we’ve perfected the art of creating unique flavors and experiences that are global and yet deeply rooted in India’s rich history and are truly a class apart from what any other microbrewery in India offers,” says Gopi Chand Cherukuri, cofounder of ICB-Indian Craft Brewery.

The brewery’s grandeur lies in its thoughtfully designed experiential spaces, known as zones, which invite patrons to explore COAST—Culture, Opinion, Art, Sustainability, and Taste. Each zone offers a uniquely curated brewery experience that celebrates ICB’s Indic roots while evoking a deep sense of both longing and belonging. While the first zone opens today, the second zone is set to launch in January 2025. 

The brewery’s launch sets a new benchmark in Bengaluru’s iconic beer and dining culture as ICB will also serve as a unique cultural hotspot to imbibe and savour rare Indian culinary experiences. Starting next month, ICB will also host thoughtfully curated pop-up experiences led by renowned chefs, including erstwhile Maharajas from around the country, and featuring their royal heirloom recipes. 

An Experience Inspired by India’s Cultural Heritage

ICB-Indian Craft Brewery seeks to blend India’s rich cultural history with modern innovation in order to reimagine the Indian craft beer landscape. The craft beers at ICB have been inspired by the desire to reconnect with India’s historical ties to beer brewing, a legacy that dates back to 1500 BC. Excavations and Vedic texts reveal that beer played a significant role in the subcontinent’s culinary traditions, but this heritage has often been overshadowed by more contemporary narratives.

At the heart of the ICB experience is the Vari—the water bearer—an emblem inspired by the Indus Valley Civilization. The Vari symbol is more than just the brand emblem, it is a unifying theme across ICB’s offerings, on beer glasses, crockery, and on the walls, emphasizing mindfulness and our traditional reverence for water and precious resources. 

Shad Skye: Northeast Flavors at Cosmo, Hyatt Centric

The stunning interiors featuring high arches and dotted with larger-than-life replica artifacts from ancient India, including the famous Dancing Girl sculpture from IVC, complement the beer and culinary experience to create a truly unique experience that is unlike any other microbrewery in India. 

Focus on Innovation at Indian Craft Brewery

All nine beers available on tap at ICB-Indian Craft Brewery embody innovation and meticulous craftsmanship, led by master brewer Antonio. With a research center in Belgium, ICB combines institutional R&D with the expertise of its master brewer Antonio, and head brewer Mahesh. 

ICB has also painstakingly sourced natural or wild (non-farmed) ingredients for its beers. For example, the honey for Nandi Nectar, ICB’s premier innovation beer, has been sustainably sourced from the forests of Chennai. The brewery has also sourced wild honey from other regions around India.

Ramanujan, ICB’s signature non-alcoholic beer, is a bold step towards reimagining the non-alcoholic craft beer experience in India. Named after the greatest mathematician to have ever lived, Ramanujan offers the full complexity and depth of craft beer experience for everyone – from beer lovers or connoisseurs who want to enjoy drinking without losing sobriety, to teetotalers.

The focus on innovation shines through in the food menu. While the names of some dishes may look familiar, each dish is crafted with rare indigenous ingredients and special spices to delight the taste buds. The entire food menu is a result of deep research into culinary tastes and cultures of various regions of India and perfectly complements the beers and other drinks available at ICB. 

Sustainability at Innovation at Indian Craft Brewery

ICB is also committed to sustainability and has partnered with Saving Grains, a Bangalore-based sustainability-focused organisation. The spent grains post the brewing process will be used as raw ingredients for crafting nutritious snacks like granola and crackers.

About ICB-Indian Craft Brewery

Located in the vibrant business district of Manyata Business Park in Bangalore and spread over two acres of land, ICB-Indian Craft Brewery is a new 1,500-seater microbrewery that is dedicated to innovating the craft beer and culinary scene with a strong focus on innovation and craftsmanship. Drawing deeply upon India’s ancient brewing traditions and indigenous culinary cultures, and with the goal of fostering a vibrant community that celebrates India’s unique cultural heritage, ICB will offer unique experiences for beer enthusiasts and social connoisseurs alike.

The post ICB Indian Craft Brewery: Bold Heritage Brews in Bengaluru first appeared on Brewer World-Everything about beer is here.

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Supporting Sustainable Agriculture: A Win-Win Collaboration

In its commitment to high-quality beer, BeeYoung consistently source malt from barley cultivated through sustainable agricultural practices. This ensures a fully integrated barley supply chain, guaranteeing farmers fair prices and a premium for their produce. By endorsing sustainable agricultural practices, BeeYoung actively contributes to the well-being of the farming community and strengthens the connection between our agricultural initiatives and our valued clients.

Crafting Complexity: Fresh Hops & Longer Production Time

BeeYoung incorporates fresh hops for a more pronounced aroma and better consistency in terms of flavor. Its 15-day total production time results in more complex flavor profiles and higher carbonation, setting us apart from other Indian peers whose production time is mostly 8-10 days. This dedication to time and ingredients ensures that every sip of BeeYoung is a testament to our commitment to excellence.

Catering to the Indian Palate: Low Bitterness with High ABV

BeeYoung understands the preferences of the Indian palate, which is why BeeYoung boasts low bitterness with high alcohol by volume (ABV), offering a balanced and enjoyable drinking experience.

Mr. Abhinav Jindal – Founder and CEO of Kimaya Himalayan Beverages, stated, “From the fields to the fingertips of consumers, our journey is a triumph for all. KHB upholds a profound commitment to customers, vendors, the nation, and stakeholders alike. As dedicated manufacturers, we embrace the responsibility of providing unparalleled value, proudly standing as one of the nation’s few to exclusively use 100% European varietal two-row barley, grown and acclimatized to the Indian climate, ensuring every penny spent delivers exceptional quality in the brewing industry.”

BeeYoung’s commitment to transparency, quality ingredients, and craftsmanship sets it apart as one of the best craft beers in India. From supporting sustainable agriculture to meticulous brewing practices, BeeYoung embodies a dedication to excellence that resonates in every sip.

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The expansion of Döhler South Africa’s plant in Paarl introduces new, state-of-the-art production lines for compounds and emulsions as well as powdered and liquid flavors. In addition, it substantially increases the company’s capability for processing bulk juice concentrate. From now on, customers will have direct access to the complete portfolio of compounds, which shows Döhler’s commitment to being at the forefront of the food, beverage and life science and nutrition industry in the region.

2024 promises to be a groundbreaking year for Döhler South Africa following notable achievements and the establishment of strategic partnerships in the last year. The Paarl plant expansion sets the stage for future advancements. The addition of cutting-edge production lines and state-of-the-art R&D labs will further strengthen Döhler’s ability to deliver high-quality products and product solutions directly to the African market.

Akram Sabbah, General Manager for Southern & Eastern Africa, emphasizes the strategic significance of the expansion, stating, “The Paarl plant has been an integral part of Döhler’s success in Africa. This expansion reflects our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our customers, and it positions us for even greater accomplishments in the future.”

Jochen Bitzel, a member of the Executive Board, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion’s potential, adding, “We are excited about the potential this expansion brings. It significantly increases our production capacity. This strong boost in capability enables us to better serve our customers across Africa and solidify our position as industry leaders.”

The expansion of Döhler’s plant in Paarl was officially inaugurated in May with a ceremony attended by prominent industry figures, the Drakenstein Executive Mayor and the Consul General of the German Consulate, emphasizing Döhler’s commitment to deepen its engagement with the African food, beverage and life science and nutrition industry.

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Meet the visionary entrepreneur who seamlessly transitioned from the IT industry to leave an indelible mark in the vibrant world of Food and Beverage. This article delves into the inspiring journey of Prasanna Kumar, the Co-founder behind Bangalore Brewing Company and Beanlore India. From rescuing a struggling microbrewery to founding two thriving ventures, the entrepreneur shares insights into the evolution of Bangalore Brewing Company, its expansion plans, and the inception of Beanlore Coffee Roasters. Discover the dynamic strategies employed to navigate the complexities of the brewing and coffee business, the integration of sustainability practices, and the meticulous approach to creating an inviting ambiance. Gain valuable lessons and advice for aspiring microbrewery founders, and get an exclusive glimpse into the exciting projects, partnerships, and innovations on the horizon for this trailblazing F&B entrepreneur.

Can you share with us your journey from the IT industry to co-founding Bangalore Brewing Company and Beanlore India in the F&B sector? What inspired this transition?

Much before BLR Brewing Co and Beanlore Coffee Roasters, I endeavoured to support my friends who had initiated a microbrewery on the verge of closure. Through my efforts, I successfully transformed it into a lucrative business. This experience not only provided me with a taste for the food and beverage industry but also ignited a passion that led me to pursue it as my full-time career. BLR Brewing Co. and Beanlore Coffee Roasters are products from previous learning experiences and passion for food & beverage.

Bangalore Brewing Company has become a popular name in the craft beer scene. Could you elaborate on your expansion plans for the brewery and any new ventures in the pipeline?

I hold the belief that the brewing industry has untapped potential beyond just beer. Hence, we are in the process of introducing a range of craft-driven products. Simultaneously, we cherish collaborating with fellow beer enthusiasts to create unique brews, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients to craft distinctive beverages.

The craft beer industry has been evolving rapidly. From your perspective, what trends do you observe in the craft beer market, and how do you see Bangalore Brewing Company adapting to these changes?

The preferences of beer enthusiasts are evolving, with a growing inclination towards bitter brews and an increasing demand for fruit-infused varieties. Simultaneously, there is a noticeable shift in the trend, as consumers are now seeking low ABV options. We are actively responding to these changing consumer preferences and adapting our offerings accordingly.

With the increasing demand for unique and diverse craft beer offerings, how does Bangalore Brewing Company approach innovation in brewing and stay ahead in a competitive market?

Recognizing the paramount importance of consistency, we acknowledge that consumers return for a familiar experience. Simultaneously, we strive to keep things fresh by regularly introducing new offerings, ensuring there’s always something novel for them to explore.

Beanlore India is another venture under your umbrella. Can you tell us about the concept behind Beanlore and how it complements the vision of Bangalore Brewing Company?

Embracing my personal coffee addiction and the joy of working from cafes, I found solace away from the conventional office environment. At Beanlore Coffee Roasters, we offer PODS for private meetings, video calls, and various other gatherings. Simultaneously, my passion for specialty coffee motivated the establishment of our own specialty coffee shop. The name itself, a nod to a community sharing tales about beans, embodies our vision. Excitingly, we are gearing up to host workshops on specialty coffee brews and share stories about estates cultivating distinctive coffee beans and exploring unique fermentation processes.

Operating in the F&B sector can present various challenges. How do you navigate the complexities of both brewing and coffee business, ensuring success for both Bangalore Brewing Company and Beanlore India?

All my credits go to my unwavering passion for craft beers, food, and the delightful pairing of both, which continues to captivate my interests. As emphasized earlier, consistency is paramount in our industry, and owing to my addiction to coffee, beer, and food, I am dedicated to regularly testing our crafts and providing final approvals based on the consumer experience.

Sustainability and eco-conscious practices are gaining importance. How does Bangalore Brewing Company integrate sustainability into its operations, and are there any future initiatives planned in this direction?

Given our association with Bangalore in our name, we are committed to preserving the charm of the Garden City. As part of our initiative, we gift plants to our customers using seed paper coasters placed under all craft drinks served, accompanied by a thoughtful message. We adhere to a nearly zero-plastic policy in our operations. In instances where complete avoidance is challenging, we prioritize the use of top-notch biodegradable products. Our spaces are predominantly designed with earthen materials and colors, adorned with ample greenery. Through these initiatives, we firmly believe in contributing towards a sustainable future. 

The ambiance and service at a brewpub contribute significantly to the overall experience. Can you share insights into how you ensure excellent design and service, creating a welcoming environment for patrons?

Our paramount objective in creating the ambiance revolves around incorporating the five elements of nature and embracing the nostalgic theme of old Bangalore. I firmly believe that humans never go out of fashion and maintain a profound connection with nature. Additionally, we design our space with a focus on the local context, enhancing the ambiance with a touch of premiumization. When it comes to service, we uphold a zero-tolerance approach for second chances. Hospitality is our cornerstone, ensuring that every guest at BLR Brewing Co. feels at home during each visit.

Marketing is a key aspect of any successful business. What strategies have you found most effective in promoting your microbrewery, and how do you maintain a strong online and offline presence to attract new customers?

Collaborating with local influencers and participating in community events has allowed us to tap into the local market effectively. Word-of-mouth marketing remains invaluable, and we encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences online.

Customer engagement is crucial in the hospitality industry. How do you foster a sense of community around your microbrewery, and what initiatives do you undertake to build and retain a loyal customer base?

Building a sense of community around our brewpub or coffee shop is a priority for us. To foster customer engagement and loyalty, we implement several initiatives. Events and Gatherings, Membership Programs, Customer Feedback and Involvement, Social Media Engagement, Personalized Experiences and more.

Looking ahead, what’s next on the horizon for you in the F&B sector? Are there any exciting projects, partnerships, or innovations that you can give us a sneak peek into? 

Our ambitious growth plans involve sustainably scaling our business to two-digit numbers of outlets initially, and with the acceptance and support of our customers who we consider part of our extended family, we are open to the possibility of expanding to three-digit numbers when the time is right. Furthermore, our commitment to collaboration remains strong, particularly with local brands, as we seek to curate unique and exceptional experiences for our valued guests.

Finally, For aspiring microbrewery founders, what key lessons or pieces of advice would you share based on your experience in creating and sustaining a successful microbrewery?

The key mantra for business success lies in staying abreast of market trends, ensuring perpetual relevance, and above all, unwavering consistency stands as the foremost and primary determinant of success.

The post Crafting Success: The Journey of Brewing Entrepreneurship in Bangalore’s F&B Landscape first appeared on Brewer World-Everything about beer is here.

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April 21st, 2023: Celebrating Earth Day 2023, Bira 91 today declared the carbon neutrality of its Mysuru brewery making it India’s first Net Zero brewery. This milestone exemplifies Bira 91’s unwavering dedication to sustainability, as it continues to work towards its goal of becoming India’s first Net-Zero beer company by 2025, through its “Mission To Zero” initiative. 

Through an aggressive, 360 degree action plan to reduce energy use at its largest brewery in Mysuru, and transition to a 100% clean, renewable energy, Bira 91’s cut Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions significantly to achieve this milestone. 

Its carbon emissions for calendar year 2022 were independently assessed and certified by TÜV NORD, one of the world’s leading agencies to assess carbon footprint of companies. The assessment was done in compliance with global ISO 14064 standards, GHG Protocol and ISAE 3410. 

Speaking of the milestone, Ankur Jain, Founder and CEO, B9 Beverages, said, “At Bira 91, we believe that beer can be even more flavorful if produced in sync with nature. We embarked on the Net-Zero journey a few years back and I am extremely proud that Mysuru Brewery has set a major milestone by becoming India’s first Net-Zero brewery. The Mission to Zero is perhaps the most important work that our company is doing. With a significant manufacturing footprint in India, we feel that we have the responsibility and opportunity to be stewards in the area of carbon neutrality and inspire all manufacturing companies in India to achieve Net Zero. I congratulate our Net Zero Team for working hard and with creativity to achieve what could have seemed unachievable when we announced this goal last year”

Bira 91 embarked on its sustainability journey with the launch of the ‘Mission to Zero’ initiative last year. The company outlined four key areas to accomplish Mission To Zero – shifting to 100% clean energy, 60% reduction in energy consumption, reducing water usage by 50, and  complete eradication of waste destined for landfills from all its breweries by 2025. The foundation of this initiative can be traced back to the collaboration between Kirin Holdings and B9 Beverages, which led to the establishment of the B9-Kirin Centre for Sustainable Growth, with a focus on environmental sustainability and business synergies. Consequently, the center initiated its Net Zero project, with the aim of achieving carbon neutrality by 2025. 

Sharing his perspective, Hiromasa Honda, Managing Director, Kirin Holdings Singapore, said, “At Kirin, we are dedicated to fostering shared social and economic value with all our stakeholders, while simultaneously striving for sustainable growth. Our partnership with Bira 91 over the past few years is a testament to this vision. By sharing our expertise in innovation and sustainable practices, we have been able to craft the highest quality, sustainable products together.”  

He further added, “We are delighted to announce a significant milestone in our joint net-zero vision, with Bira 91’s Mysuru brewery becoming India’s first carbon-neutral beer manufacturing unit. This remarkable accomplishment, coupled with the soaring demand for Bira 91 beers, is a prime example of how economic growth and social responsibility can work in harmony. We take great pride in our partnership with Bira 91 and look forward to continuing our journey toward a more sustainable future.”

Bira 91’s Mission to Zero has been focused on reducing energy use in its breweries by making its manufacturing processes more automated and efficient. It has transitioned to 100% renewable energy and electricity, produced through solar, hydroelectricity, wind and other clean sources. As a result. the brewery has eliminated its Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions, cutting down a remarkable 5000 tonnes since FY2021. The facility has also made significant strides in water conservation, saving a staggering 31 million litres of water, equivalent to over 120 million glasses. Moreover, by planting over 500 trees of local varieties on the premises, providing a natural carbon sink for the community. The brewery has achieved this Net Zero milestone several years ahead of its global peers in the sector. 

More than eleven pints of Bira 91 are enjoyed every second and as the company scales up, the company acknowledges its responsibility to craft not only the most flavorful beers but also the greenest beers on the planet. The company will continue to spearhead India’s emerging Net-Zero movement, setting a bold precedent for other companies to follow. 

About B9 Beverages: 

A refreshingly modern beer brand, imagined in India, Bira 91 aspires to bring flavorful beers to the new world. As one of the fastest growing brands in the world, Bira 91 has built a diverse portfolio of award-winning beers, one for every occasion, and aims to drive a global shift in beer towards more color and flavor. Bira 91 is now enjoyed in over 1000 towns and cities spread across 18 countries and brews its beers across four breweries in India. Bira 91 has its flagship taproom in Bengaluru, where it releases one new experimental beer every week, paired with its curry-shop menu. Bira 91 also offers branded merchandise across categories such as glassware, apparel, and gifts, to make every day a lot more playful. Established in 2015, Bira 91 is driven by a dynamic team of over 600 passionate beer lovers and is backed by Sequoia Capital India, Sofina of Belgium, and Kirin Holding of Japan.  Bira 91 has also recently acquired The Beer Café, India’s leading Alco-Beverage chain to strengthen its play in pubs and taprooms and build India’s first large-scale direct-to-consumer platform focused on beer and innovation.

Learn more at www.bira91.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn , and Facebook.  

The post Bira 91’s Mysuru Brewery Becomes India’s First Net Zero Brewery first appeared on Brewer World-Everything about beer is here.

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India consumes about 7 billion liters of beer every year. This releases 25 percent of Spent Grain, which is a highly nutritious and fibrous compound. Spent grains are by-products of alcohol production with a plethora of nutritional values. Due to sustainability initiatives, efforts have been made to valorize brewers’ spent grain (BSG) in nonfood sectors as a source of feedstock, compost, biogas, and substrate for cultivation of high-value microorganisms. One such innovator, wastED, is a sustainable product brand that is rescuing these spent grains to make good edible and nutritious upcycled products. Instead of being dumped into landfills, BSG can be used as a plant protein for human consumption. By processing & packaging this nutrient, the company hopes to upcycle and create an impact.

Impact of Upcycling Spent Grains

Where recycling involves the destruction of waste in order to create something new, upcycling is about creatively repurposing discarded items in their current state to create something new and even more valuable. In this context, it relates to upcycling of the steeped grains from breweries to create an edible flour that can be made into crackers, bites and bars that are delicious, good for you and even better for the environment.

The Upcycling of spent grains:

• Minimizes waste
• Reduces pollution
• Decreases emissions
• Supports local industries
• Conserves global resources and inspires innovation & creativity. It’s a no-grainer!

Transforming and upcycling waste from the beer industry into flour for human consumption will aid in the reduction of food waste and promote food sustainability. Spent grain is by far the most nutrition-rich by-product. But because it is a potential source of high nutrient components and health-promoting bio components, the company looks to utilize spent grain for better use. According to a report on Statista, about 55% of the spent grain produced is currently thrown into landfills or dumped in the water, because of the lack of an organized collated structure in place to cater to the demand and supply of the grain. ‘wastED’ wants to bridge the gap and wants to be close to their USPs such as sustainability, nutrition and innovation. The number of health-conscious Indian consumers is expected to rise to 176 million in 2026 with a 2x increase in per capita spending per family. A booming market – upcycled foods are a solution to sustainability and affordable nutrition.

wastED is spearheaded by Radhika and Dishita who understand the cause and product they are dealing with. It’s a collaborative project with a goal to minimize waste and reduce reliance on new resources.

Their superhero ingredient Mr. Brewise is the by-product of the brewing process. Fibrous, energetic, and super adjusting Mr. Brewise loves food! They wish to use this to attract consumers and create awareness about its use.

Whether you choose to support local businesses like wastED or create a closed-loop waste system in your own home – reducing food waste is one of the easiest and most effective things you can start doing today to protect the environmental future of our planet.

Want to know more about the company? Head over to their website www.letsgetwasted.in

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Carlsberg India has continuously demonstrated outstanding service and performance in the market and was able to make an important and recognizable contribution to the development of the sector. Carlsberg India has meticulously worked hard towards making a mark in achieving their sustainability goals through various initiatives across manufacturing units and offices.

“At Carlsberg India, our business vision has always aligned with our sustainability goals. We, as an organization, have always encouraged our employees to live a conscious and sustainable lifestyle. Being recognized as the Sustainable Organization 2022, substantiates our always-on efforts.” – Nilesh Patel, Managing Director, Carlsberg India

“There is a need for a change that our environment needs right now, and Carlsberg India has always believed in promoting responsible business activities. From our manufacturing units to corporate offices, we have taken conscious and innovative steps to achieve our ESG goals. Being felicitated as The Sustainable Organizations 2022 is a great recognition and an added responsibility for the entire team here at Carlsberg India.” – Rishi Chawla, Vice President Corporate Affairs,Carlsberg India

At present Carlsberg India is running several initiatives within the organization to work towards their sustainable goals, some of them include:

• As part of their WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Health) program, Carlsberg India has been working towards improving health and sanitation of schools for the underprivileged by providing the schools with fundamental educational infrastructure, such as clean drinking water, renovated restrooms, and hand washing stations – all of which are essential components of the learning environment in schools in Alwar, Rajasthan and Mysuru, Karnataka.
• On the World Environment Day 2022, the company planted 397 trees India-wide.
• All Carlsberg employees have pledged to use electric vehicles and public transport, pool cars and bicycles to reduce exploitation of fuel and air pollution.
• To ensure water cleanliness employees from the Carlsberg Mumbai office gathered at the Juhu beach and collected approximately 70 kg of garbage lying on the seashore.

About Carlsberg India

Carlsberg India Private Limited (CIPL) commenced its operations in 2007 with the first production in Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh. CIPL focuses on developing and strengthening its brand portfolio through innovation and commitment to superior quality.

The product portfolio of the company includes its brands – Carlsberg Smooth, Carlsberg Elephant, Tuborg Green, Tuborg Strong and Tuborg Classic. As a member of the Carlsberg Group, Carlsberg India offers beer for every occasion and for every palate and lifestyle.

To know more about Carlsberg India, log on to www.carlsbergindia.com

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The EU barley crop production was lowered by 4.6% to 52.3M MT, as dryness in Scandinavia and the Baltic States resulted in poorer production³. Viking Malt reports decreases in yield of about 5-7%. Moreover, quality is also highly variable, even within the same country, for example in Sweden⁴.

Prices in Canada reached all-time highs, with feed barley at C$9 a bushel ($7 a bushel) and malt fetching a premium of as much as C$1 above that, according to the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre, as reported by the Economic Times⁵. The Brewers Association reports that Lethbridge Feed barley price went from an approximate value of 250$ per ton in 2020 to 417$ per ton in 2021.

In Europe, Viking Malt explains that, whilst the malting barley prices were around 200 EUR/MT (FOB Swedish /Danish Port) in the first couple of months of 2021, they are now over 300 EUR/MT⁴.

Impact on Beer & Brewing

The Economic Times report on the impact the barley crop may have on beer and brewing⁵:

Beer input costs are soaring across the globe, fuelled by withering barley supplies and surging aluminium costs, increase in energy costs, plus the same labour and transport bottlenecks plaguing every other industry.

Drought reduced the “plumpness” of barley and also raised protein content in the grain – both bad news for the beverage industry. The European Union has also cut its barley crop estimate after rain dented the quality of the harvest.

Global barley stockpiles are likely to fall to the lowest in nearly 40 years. That’s driven prices in Canada to all-time highs, with feed barley at C$9 a bushel ($7 a bushel) and malt fetching a premium of as much as C$1 above that, according to the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre, as reported by the Economic Times.

“This year, they are not going to have enough, or quality will be negatively impacted,” Jamie Sherman, Montana State University’s barley breeder, said. Drought reduced the “plumpness” of barley and also raised protein content in the grain – both bad news for the beverage industry. “There’s a competition for good-quality barley,” Sherman said⁵.

Challenges Ahead for Malted Barley

– Low Alcohol Yield – led by lower starch content in the grain.

– Increased Energy Need – Smaller/harder kernels means more energy needed to achieve good extract yield. Higher gelatinization temperature of the starch.

– Stability and Colour Issues – Due to high protein content.

– Impact of Flavour Stability – Caused by the presence of FAN in high qualities.

– Separation and filtration issues due to higher beta-glucan in the grain.

– Gushing risk – wet malt leads to Fusarium (fungi) contamination risk and the presence of hydrophobins.

Impact of High FAN on Flavour & Stability

High free amino acid nitrogen (FAN) can impact flavour and stability. In brewing, FAN serves as a source of nitrogen for yeast growth during fermentation. Excessive FAN levels in beer contribute to negative flavour attribute formation. FAN is converted into other components during the production process. These can later be oxidised, giving the beer an undesirable oxidised flavour.

Excessive FAN levels in beer contribute to stability issues. Lower foam stability due to decreasing levels of longer peptides, which normally stabilise the bubbles formation.

Filtration & Extraction Challenges

Low friability may lead to filtration and starch extraction challenges. Friable grains are desirable in brewing because they indicate that the malt is dry and that its enzymes are likely to be active when hydrated in the mash. Low friable grains can be flattened rather than cracked during milling. Such grains offer less sizable pieces which can lead to issues during filtering. They also offer less surface area and the starch liquefaction is delayed.

High Protein Leads to Haze & Colour Issues

High protein content can mean haze and colour control issues. Proteins are energy sources for yeast to be able to function during fermentation and provide mouthfeel and foam stability. Yet, high protein can lead to haze problems in the beer, and it is more difficult for maltsters to control the colour of the malt during processing. Higher protein barley tends to yield dark malts.

Impact on Filtration from High Levels of Beta-Glucan

High beta-glucan content can lead to separation and filtration problems. Barley β-glucans are highly viscous and can reduce rates of wort separation and beer filtration and lead to the formation of hazes, gels, and precipitates. Beta glucans increase wort viscosity leading to challenges during mash wort separation which can translate into reduced production capacity.

Curbing The Impact

Adjusting Mash Profile

IFF’s master brewers recommend adjusting mash profile to a higher mashing temperature. A higher saccharification temperature (65°C or more), will help overcome potential attenuation problems and avoid excessive protein solubilisation. It also reduces the impact of LOX (lipoxygenase) to improve the flavour stability of the beer.

Adapt Your Enzyme Choices

LAMINEX^® MaxFlow 4G helps parade the high beta glucan content. LAMINEX^® MaxFlow 4G to improve the extraction of starch, and reduce the filtration/separation problems otherwise caused by high beta-glucan in wort.

Alpha-amylase, like AMYLEX^® 5T, should normally not be required, but in case the barley is dead and gives high PUG and WUG in the malt, this could become required. It could also become necessary to use an enzyme to improve fermentability, like DIAZYME^® MA or DIAZYME^® TGA/X4. LAMINEX^® MaxFlow 4G also helps break down arabinoxylan reducing viscosity.

This article was adapted from a recently published paper by IFF. All the references cited are listed below.

Copyright © 2022 International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (“IFF”). All rights reserved. IFF, the IFF Logo, and all trademarks and service marks denoted with ™, SM or ® are owned by IFF or affiliates of IFF.  The information provided herein is based on data IFF believes, to the best of its knowledge, reliable and applies only to the specific material designated herein as sold by IFF. The information contained herein does not apply to use of the material designated herein in any process or in combination with any other material and is provided at the request of and without charge to our customers. Accordingly, IFF cannot guarantee or warrant such information and assumes no liability for its use. Other than as may be expressly set forth in a contract of sale, IFF makes no warranty, express or implied, as to the material set forth herein, including the warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular use.

Sources:

[1] https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Todays_Reports/reports/smgr0921.pdf

[2] https://magicvalley.com/business/agriculture/no-barley-no-beer-and-the-barley-crop-is-really-struggling-in-2021/article_64e33528-ff81-58b2-ab93-3fbf68fff372.html

[3] https://circabc.europa.eu/sd/a/98826879-f6a2-4931-b2fc-4780ee466338/cereals-market-situation.pdf

[4] https://www.vikingmalt.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/VIKING-MALT-SOURCING-NEWS-LETTER-2-2021.pdf

[5] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/trade/exports/insights/its-last-call-for-cheap-beer/articleshow/87451490.cms

[6] https://www.brewersassociation.org/collab-hour/from-barley-to-beer-managing-malt-quality-in-a-changing-climate/

The post Helping Brewers Overcome the Challenging Barley Crop first appeared on Brewer World-Everything about beer is here.

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