Can Beer Brewing Equipment Be Used for Hard Seltzers?

Refreshing and light alcoholic beverages have gained popularity in recent years. While beer continues to be a longtime favorite, hard seltzers are strong contenders as the new favorite among young adults. A common question among brewers is if it's possible to use beer brewing equipment for hard seltzers because this new type of drink has different characteristics. Understanding the differences and similarities in the brewing process will help you learn if you can use the same equipment for different drinks.

Similarities and Differences in Brewing Processes

The brewing processes for beer and hard seltzers might seem worlds apart, but it's more similar than you think. It's important to learn the differences to determine if you want to attempt seltzer creation.

Fermentation Vessels

One of the main components of brewing equipment is the fermentation vessel. In beer and hard seltzer production, this vessel is the stage where yeast converts sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide. While beer requires a more complex mix of sugars from malted grains, hard seltzers rely on simple sugars, often in the form of cane sugar or fruit extracts.

Temperature Control

Proper temperature control is essential in brewing, regardless of the beverage. The temperature ranges for fermentation might change between beer and hard seltzers due to the yeast strains used, but precise temperature control is necessary.

Carbonation

While beer requires careful carbonation management to achieve the desired consistency, hard seltzers are naturally effervescent. They can share beer brewing equipment like kegs, bottling lines, and brite tanks with some adjustments. A jacketed brite tank is the best solution for both liquids to maintain carbonation.

Equipment Considerations for Hard Seltzer Production

While you can use beer equipment for hard seltzer production, you must take several considerations into account.

Cleanliness and Cross-Contamination

Repurposing brewing equipment requires thorough cleaning to prevent cross-contamination. Residual flavors and aromas from beer production can easily carry into the finished hard seltzers, altering their profile.

Ingredient Additions

Unlike beer, hard seltzers rely on delicate natural flavors. Mixing these flavors requires precision to achieve the desired taste. Tanks or specialized equipment might be necessary for the tastiest results.

Yeast Selection

Beer and hard seltzers rely on yeast, and the strains for fermentation vary significantly. Beer yeast contributes to the drink’s flavor and aroma, while hard seltzer yeast ferments sugars cleanly without adding flavors.

Can I Share Equipment?

Sharing beer brewing equipment for hard seltzers is possible because of the similar principles of fermentation, temperature control, and carbonation. It is important to recognize the main differences in the brewing processes and the unique requirements of each beverage.

Equipment repurposing demands careful consideration to ensure the production of your hard seltzers. Using high-quality stainless steel equipment will keep your tools active for a long time with few issues.