Beer is one of the most popular and widely consumed beverages in the world, but it may soon face some challenges due to climate change.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has revealed that climate change threatens the cultivation in Europe of aromatic hops, which give beer its bitterness and flavor.
The study found that rising temperatures and less rain are reducing the yields and the concentration of the compounds that provide beer its refreshing tartness.
This could have implications for the price, availability, and taste of beer in the future.
The impact of climate change on hop production
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Hops are the cone-shaped flowers of the hop plant, which are used to add bitterness, aroma, and flavor to beer.
Hops contain alpha acids, which are responsible for the bitter taste, and essential oils, which contribute to the aroma and flavor.
Different varieties of hops have different levels of these compounds, and brewers use different combinations of hops to create different styles of beer.
The study analysed data from five sites in the Czech Republic, Germany, and Slovakia, which along with Poland are the primary hops growers in Europe.
European varieties of hops are prized and used by brewers around the world, especially for craft beers.
The researchers compared the data from 1995-2018 with 1971-1994 and found that yields fell between 9.5% and 19.4% at four sites and were stable at a fifth site.
Meanwhile, the concentration of alpha acids decreased by 10% to 30% at all sites.
The researchers attributed these changes to the effects of climate change, such as higher temperatures, lower precipitation, and more frequent droughts.
They projected that by 2050, hops yields could drop by 4% to 18%, while alpha acids could drop by 20% to 31%, compared with 1989 to 2019. These changes could affect both the quantity and quality of hops available for brewing.
The implications for the beer industry and consumers
The decline in hop production could have significant consequences for the beer industry and consumers.
Hops are a key ingredient in most beers, and their availability and quality affect the cost and taste of beer.
The study estimated that it would be necessary to expand the area of aroma hops by 20% compared to the current production area to compensate for the future decline in potency and yields.
This could increase the demand and price of hops, which could in turn increase the price of beer.
The study also suggested that brewers would have to adapt their methods to cope with the reduced bitterness and flavor in hops.
They could use more hops per batch, use different varieties or sources of hops, or modify their recipes or processes to achieve the desired taste and quality.
However, these options could also entail additional costs or challenges for brewers, especially for small-scale or craft brewers who rely on specific types of hops.
The study warned that climate change could pose a serious threat to the stability of international market chains for hops and beer, and called for urgent adaptation measures.
These could include moving crops to more suitable areas, irrigating crops, developing new varieties or technologies, or implementing policies or incentives to support farmers and brewers.
The study concluded that climate change is already changing the taste and quality of beer and that these changes will likely intensify in the future.
Beer lovers may have to pay more or settle for less for their favorite drink unless effective actions are taken to mitigate the impact of climate change on hop production.
