At ONP5 we offer a wide range of delicious alcohol-free and low-alcohol beers (all below 0.5% alcohol). Whether you go for a hoppy IPA or a fresh radler, quality is our top priority. One of the ways many brewers ensure that quality is through pasteurization. But what exactly is pasteurization, why is it so important that non-alcoholic beers are pasteurized and what do you do with beers that are not pasteurized (such as the fantastic beers from Tempest)?
What is pasteurization?
Pasteurization is a process in which beer is heated briefly, usually between 60 and 80 degrees Celsius. This works wonders: it kills unwanted bacteria, yeasts and other microorganisms that can affect the taste or shelf life of the beer. The result? Beer that stays tasty longer and is safe to drink. This process is named after Louis Pasteur, who originally treated milk in this way. Fortunately, brewers realized that this technique is also useful for beer, especially for non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beer.
Why are most non-alcoholic beers pasteurized?
Alcohol has a natural preservative effect. In traditional beers with a higher alcohol percentage, this helps to keep unwanted creatures at bay. But in alcohol-free and low-alcohol beers (under 0.5% alcohol), this preservative power is much less. This makes these beers more susceptible to spoilage and changes in taste.
Pasteurization gives beer a shelf life boost. This is essential, because non-alcoholic beers often travel long distances and sometimes sit in your fridge for a while before you drink them. Pasteurization guarantees taste, quality and safety – even if you don’t drink your beer for months.
What are the benefits of pasteurization?
The biggest advantage is without a doubt the longer shelf life . Whether you open your beer immediately or half a year later, it tastes as the brewer intended.
In addition, pasteurization ensures consistent quality . Every bottle or can is the same – no surprises. And let's face it: no one wants a foaming explosion or a sour taste.
For us as a webshop, pasteurization is a blessing. We want every beer we send to arrive in top condition. Thanks to pasteurization, that is a lot easier to guarantee.
But what if a beer is not pasteurized?
Some beers, such as Tempest , are not pasteurized. This is a conscious choice by the brewer, often to keep the taste as pure and authentic as possible. This does mean that these beers are somewhat more sensitive.
How do you handle them? Simple: treat them like fresh produce. Always keep them in the fridge and drink them within the recommended time. When in doubt, keeping them cool and dark is your best friend. And make sure you don’t expose them to unnecessary heat, as this can quickly change the taste.
Are there any disadvantages to pasteurization?
Yes, there are disadvantages. Pasteurization adds an extra step to the brewing process, which increases the cost. In addition, heating can change subtle nuances in the flavor. Some purists therefore swear by unpasteurized beers. But with non-alcoholic beers, this difference is almost negligible and the advantages usually outweigh the disadvantages.
Cheers to perfectly preserved beer
Bee ONP5 we do our best to offer you the very best alcohol-free and low-alcohol beers, pasteurized or not. Thanks to pasteurization, most beers stay good for a long time. And for those few exceptions, such as Tempest, it is a matter of keeping cool and enjoying quickly.
So, whatever your choice, you can toast with a clear conscience. To quality, taste and beer OnderNulPuntVijf %. Cheers! 🍻
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