When the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215, beer was seen as important enough to be mentioned in Article 35 and, according to Beer Day Britain, to this day seven out of ten drinks sold in a pub are beer. That is why on the 15th of June, Britain celebrates National Beer Day.
For many years, we have been working with breweries to supply them with cereals that are used as adjuncts in the brewing process. But what are adjuncts and how can we help your next brew stand out from the crowd?
What are adjuncts?
Adjuncts are used to enhance and modify a brew and create an interesting and individual product. Individuality is key in the ever-increasing popularity of craft beers and micro-brewing, with brewers looking for different ingredients to give a distinct aroma or flavour. Adjuncts can also be used to bulk out a brew as a way of aiding mass production, improve head and head retention, reduce the gluten content in the final beer and add colour.
The other reason brewers look to adjuncts is to make a high-alcohol beer. By adding extra sugars, the yeast will ferment them in addition to the malt and produce more alcohol.
What can be used as an adjunct?
Wheat, barley, rye oats, rice and other grains can all be used as adjuncts in brewing, with rye becoming increasingly popular in recent times. To achieve something different in terms of flavour, aroma or colour, the ingredients need to be treated - an area in which our team has extensive experience.
Depending on the brewer's individual requirements, the adjuncts we supply can be whole grains, flakes or kibbled grits, cut to the required particle size. The grains can be toasted or they can be coated with ingredients such as malt extract, honey or cane molasses. If you are looking for something really different to try we can also coat cereal flakes with bespoke flavours and colours.
Cereals coated with malt extract could be a way to help save costs without compromising the malt flavour that remains eternally popular. In addition, they have the advantage of being dry ingredients, which are easier to work with than syrups.
Bespoke blends for brewing
For brewers looking to create a brand-new beer that really stands out from the crowd, our New Product Development (NPD) team has extensive experience in working closely with customers to create and supply unique bespoke blends.
Find out more about how we can help you with your brewery’s needs or request a sample pack by contacting us today. And don’t forget to raise a glass with us for the ‘National Cheers to Beer’ at 7pm on 15th June!