Different Types of Brewery Enzymes and Their Uses
 1 February 2024

As Enzymes work as catalysts to transform and insert components into the beloved beverage that we all enjoy, they are crucial to the intricate and inventive process of manufacturing beer. Enzymes have a transforming role in brewing operations. We explore the rich realm of brewery enzymes in this post and learn about their importance in the brewing process. We’ll examine their many roles, which range from affecting flavours to dissecting intricate chemicals. Let’s start!

1. What Are Brewing Enzymes and What Do They Do?

Imagine brewing enzymes as tiny conductors orchestrating a symphony in your beer-making journey. Their job is to transform simple ingredients into the complex flavours we love. In brewing, enzymes are the behind-the-scenes maestros quickening chemical reactions and simplifying molecules, turning grains, water, hops, and yeast into the familiar golden beverage. Let’s check out the enzymes used in the brewing industry.

2. Enzymes Used In the Brewing Process

  • Amylase: It turns starches into sugars for fermentation. Think of it as the wizard converting barley starch into the sweet magic of beer.
  • Protease: Converts proteins into amino acids, reducing haziness for a crystal-clear brew.
  • Beta-Glucanase: Breaks down beta-glucans, ensuring a clear and smooth drink without filtration hiccups.
  • Phytase: Releases phosphates, giving yeast the boost it needs for top-notch metabolism.
  • Pectinase: Degrades fruit-based pectin, preventing haze and enhancing fruity goodness in beers.

All above are brewing industry enzymes. To enhance the amount of fermentable sugars in the wort, breweries may supplement malt with exogenous amylase enzymes to improve the intrinsic amylase activity of the grain. More control over the brewing beer process is possible with this targeted technique, particularly when handling differences in malt quality or characteristics.

Additionally, exogenous enzymes provide versatility for various brewing techniques and recipes. Different enzyme combinations can be used by brewers to achieve particular effects that are suited to the subtleties of various beer styles. This adaptability is especially useful in the ever-evolving world of craft brewing, where creativity and making mistakes are cherished.

3. Joining the Enzyme Symphony: Commercial Enzymes

Think of commercial enzymes as guest musicians enhancing the brewing orchestra. Sourced from outside, they’re carefully crafted to boost quality and efficiency. These enzymes, obtained through advanced fermentation processes, add flexibility to brewing methods and recipes, allowing for precise control over the process.

Over the past two years, numerous breweries have implemented initiatives to enhance efficiency and optimize the utilization of raw materials. A significant focus has been placed on incorporating commercial enzymes into the brewing process to reduce production time, boost capacity, and explore alternative raw materials in lieu of malt.

One notable practice involves substituting a portion of malt with barley. This approach has gained popularity because using barley alongside commercial enzymes yields brewage of comparable quality to that achieved with malt.

4. Selecting the Right Enzyme

To craft your brewing masterpiece, choose your enzymes wisely:

a. Brewing Goals: Define your brewing goals – flavour, efficiency, or clarity.

b. Malt Composition: Understand your malt’s diastatic strength for optimal enzyme use.

c. Beer Style: Different beers, different enzymes. Match them for the perfect brew.

d. Brewing Conditions: Align temperature, pH, and mash time with the optimal enzyme requirements.

e. Supplier Insights: Contact enzyme suppliers for valuable usage tips and compatibility information.

Enzymes play the crucial role of conductors, ensuring each element harmonizes perfectly in the brewing process. Grasping their varieties and functions gives brewers the tools to craft exceptional beer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just love homebrewing, delving into the science of brewery enzymes is the gateway to mastering the brewing art. Here’s to the enchanting realm of enzymes and the delightful brews they contribute to!

In India, Ultreze Enzymes is the leading producer, distributor, and exporter of brewing enzymes. We genuinely think that premium enzymes are essential to the brewing sector. Your hunt for excellent brewing enzymes for your brewery is over, We are here for you. Yes, together we can make a difference!