Brewing is not just a fun pastime anymore, as more and more people are realizing it can also be a lucrative business. The brewing industry is currently experiencing immense growth, with an increasing number of people showing an interest in brewing their beer or opening a brewery. When you are transitioning from home brewing to brewing for commercial purposes, whatever route you choose, investing in equipment is crucial to ensure quality products are produced. In this blog post, you’ll learn more about the kit you need to thrive in the brewing industry. This includes industrial measuring equipment that’s designed to help with precision when brewing, and finding the right fermentation buckets for your products. Are you ready to take your brewing journey to the next level? Let’s dive in!
The brewing industry is truly exciting at the moment. In recent years, consumer trends have shifted towards an appreciation for craft and artisanal beverages, with individuals seeking out unique flavors and brewing techniques that big-name brands often can’t offer. This has opened the market for smaller breweries to make a significant impact. The growth of home brewing has also encouraged a new wave of brewers who have taken their passion from a hobby to a commercial endeavor. Furthermore, advancements in brewing technology and equipment have made it feasible for many to establish their operations, adding to the robust growth of the industry. Together with the expansion of online marketing and direct-to-consumer platforms, breweries are now able to reach a wider audience, boosting their overall sales and presence in the market.
So if you’re a budding brewer, what professional kit do you need to succeed?
Brewers’ Hydrometers
One of the most important tools that every brewer needs is a hydrometer. It measures the starting and final gravity of your beer during the fermentation process, which is crucial to ensure that sugars have been consumed efficiently by the yeast and of course the alcohol content.
There are different types of hydrometers available but if you’re serious about brewing, you owe yourself a quality option. Industrial hydrometers are more accurate than most models, this ensures that the measurements are consistent across batches of beer. Brewers’ hydrometers come in different sizes and must be handled carefully to ensure they remain accurate.
Refractometer
Another important instrument, especially for commercial brewers, is a refractometer. It measures the sugar concentration in wort, which is the liquid extracted from the malted grains before fermenting. This device uses light refraction to measure the amount of sugar, giving you an accurate readout of your beer’s potential alcohol level.
Refractometers are hand-held devices that offer fast readings and are straightforward to use. They are more reliable and precise than the typical hydrometer and are ideal for testing the beer on the spot. They’re also perfect for testing beer’s sugar concentration in the factory before releasing it to the customer.
pH Meters
A pH meter is a valuable tool that measures the acidity and alkalinity of your beer. They check that the pH is in the desired range, that is, between 4.0 and 4.5, to ensure the beer’s stability and safety. It’s essential to check the pH because the wrong acidic level can make it unsafe to consume and can give a sour taste to the beer.
Again, there are various types of pH meters, including benchtop and portable options. For starters, a handheld digital pH meter is ideal as it’s small, portable, and affordable. Choosing a pH meter that gives you a clear reading regardless of external conditions is important to guarantee correct readings.
Thermometers
One of the most basic instruments you need is the thermometer. They measure the temperature of the wort or mash in the brewing process. Temperature plays a vital role in maintaining the consistency of each batch, and consistency is essential for accuracy in every brew.
There are different types of thermometers available, including dial, digital, and infrared. A digital option is considered one of the best options as it’s accurate and easy to read. Ensure that the thermometer gives a quick and precise reading, and investing in a digital one can limit human errors.
Industrial Scales
The weight of each ingredient plays an important role in brewing. Industrial scales are used to measure the exact weight of the ingredients. They’re designed for commercial purposes and can handle higher capacity weights.
Brewers have the option of investing in electronic or mechanical scales, but digital scales are perfect for measuring small and precise amounts, ensuring flawless consistency. Investing in industrial scales is important, as it can ensure reproducibility and consistency for each batch.
Fermentation Buckets
A critical part of the brewing process, fermentation buckets house the transformation of wort into beer. These containers offer a controlled environment where yeast consumes sugar to produce alcohol and carbon dioxide, a process known as fermentation. Available in materials like plastic and stainless steel, they come in various sizes to cater to different brewing volumes. A key feature of fermentation buckets is the airtight seal, which prevents contamination and allows the pressure to build, aiding in the fermentation process. Some buckets also come with a built-in airlock and spigot, enhancing the functionality. Opting for a food-grade, durable, and easy-to-clean bucket is essential to ensure the quality and consistency of your brew.
Starting a brewing business is an exciting journey that requires the right kit to thrive. Investing in industrial measuring equipment is essential for accuracy, precision, and consistency. Brewers’ hydrometers, refractometers, pH meters, thermometers, and industrial scales ensure that every batch is of the highest-quality and meets the standards required for commercial purposes. And fermentation buckets provide the controlled environment necessary for the fermentation process to take place successfully. With this equipment in hand, you’ll be well on your way to achieving success in the thriving brewing industry.