Roland Pahl (1); (1) VLB Berlin, Berlin, Germany
Analytical
Poster
The forcing test (e.g., according to MEBAK 2.14.2.1) represents a
well-established method to estimate the haze stability of beer. Forcing
tests are often implemented in quality control measures of breweries, as
well as in external product quality tests. Parameters that possibly
influence the results of forcing tests were tested and evaluated in a
research project at the VLB Berlin e.V. The kinetics of temperature
transfer represent one of the crucial factors for inducing turbidity in
beer. The kinetics are influenced by the heating, as well as the
cooling, device. In model solutions different parameters, e.g., volume,
time, heating medium, were tested. Furthermore, the temperature at the
moment of turbidity measurement is an important parameter. To illustrate
the influence, beer samples were measured at different temperatures
during long-term forcing tests. In a comparison study four different
beers were aged according to the forcing test method described in MEBAK
2.14.2.1. The turbidity was measured with five different turbidity
meters, and the results were compared. The results revealed minor
deviations depending on the measurement device used. In conclusion it
was shown that the forcing test (MEBAK 2.14.2.1) is able to show
differences in the product stability for beer. To improve the
consistency and liability of the results certain influencing parameters
should be controlled. Potential for improvement is discussed for total
analysis time and interpretation of results (stabilization efficiency).
Roland Pahl heads the Research Institute for Beer and Beverage
Production within VLB Berlin. Roland started his brewing career with an
apprenticeship at Berlin Schultheiss Brewery. After working as a brewer
he started his studies in brewing technology at the University of
Technology of Berlin. Starting to work for VLB Berlin in 2002, he became
head of VLB’s Institute for Engineering and Packaging in 2007. In 2011
he obtained his Ph.D. degree in brewing technology and has been in his
current position since 2014.
