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Health
Multisensory Science Behind Functional Beers
Functional beers are transforming the way we enjoy beverages, combining sensory appeal with health benefits. These non-alcoholic beers mimic the taste, aroma, and feel of traditional beer while including ingredients like nootropics and adaptogens to promote relaxation and well-being. Here’s what makes them stand out:
- Multisensory Integration: Your senses - taste, smell, sight, touch, and sound - work together to create a complete beer experience.
- Key Ingredients: Functional beers use ingredients like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.
- Sensory Design: Brewers focus on taste, aroma, texture, and even the sound of pouring to replicate the traditional beer experience.
- Consumer Appeal: These beers cater to health-conscious drinkers seeking alcohol-free options without sacrificing flavor or social rituals.
Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® lead this space by blending sensory science with functional ingredients, offering beers that relax and satisfy. Functional beers are reshaping the beverage market, meeting both wellness and sensory expectations.
Applying The Science: Who Drinks Non-Alcoholic Beer, And Why?
Sensory Experience of Beer
Drinking beer is more than just about taste - it's a full sensory experience. Multiple senses work together to create what feels like a complete and satisfying moment. This understanding is especially important when crafting non-alcoholic beers, ensuring they don't just offer health perks but also deliver the same sensory depth as their alcoholic counterparts.
How Taste, Smell, and Sight Shape Beer Perception
When you drink beer, your brain processes taste, smell, and sight all at once to build its flavor profile. Taste receptors pick up basic flavors, while your sense of smell adds layers of complexity. Even visual elements, like the beer's color and clarity, set the stage for how you'll perceive its flavor. For instance, the golden color of a lager or the deep amber of an ale creates expectations before you even take a sip [2].
The Role of Touch and Sound in the Beer Experience
Touch and sound are equally important. Mouthfeel - things like temperature, carbonation, and texture - gives beer its unique physical presence. And sound? It’s surprisingly impactful. The psssht when a bottle opens, the fizz of carbonation, and the pouring sound all build anticipation and enhance enjoyment. Brewers of non-alcoholic beers make sure to preserve these familiar sounds to keep the experience authentic [1].
"Multisensory integration research has allowed us to better understand how humans integrate sensory information to produce a unitary experience of the external world." [1]
Here’s a breakdown of how each sense contributes to the beer experience:
| Sensory Element | Role in Beer Experience | Impact on Non-Alcoholic Beer Design |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Detects basic flavors like sweet or bitter | Balances added functional ingredients |
| Smell | Adds depth and complexity to the flavor | Mimics traditional beer aromas |
| Sight | Sets flavor expectations with color and clarity | Shapes first impressions |
| Touch | Conveys texture, carbonation, and temperature | Essential for mouthfeel |
| Sound | Builds anticipation and enjoyment | Retains the familiar beer experience |
Modern brewing relies on these sensory insights to recreate the full beer experience in non-alcoholic versions [1][3]. By focusing on these sensory elements, brewers are making non-alcoholic beers that feel just as satisfying as traditional ones, helping them appeal to a broader audience.
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Science Behind Functional Non-Alcoholic Beers
Creating functional non-alcoholic beers blends traditional brewing techniques with cutting-edge ingredients, resulting in beverages that offer both great taste and added benefits.
The Role of Nootropics, Adaptogens, and Functional Ingredients
These beers use carefully selected ingredients to replicate the relaxing effects of alcohol while delivering a satisfying sensory experience. The combination of these ingredients works on both the body and mind, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Here’s a breakdown of key ingredients and their roles:
| Ingredient Type | Purpose | Impact on Taste and Feel |
|---|---|---|
| Nootropics | Boost mental performance | Sharpens flavor perception and clarity |
| Adaptogens | Help reduce stress | Adds to the smooth texture and calming effect |
A standout example of this approach is IMPOSSIBREW®, a brand that has successfully incorporated these elements into its drinks.
Case Study: IMPOSSIBREW®
IMPOSSIBREW® showcases how science-backed ingredients can elevate non-alcoholic beers. Their unique Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine to encourage relaxation
- Ashwagandha to ease stress
- Soluble Plant Fibres to enhance texture
The brand’s brewing process ensures these ingredients work together seamlessly, producing beers that relax without sacrificing flavor. Their Enhanced Lager and Enhanced Pale Ale stay true to the taste of traditional beers while offering added benefits [2][4].
This scientific approach is reshaping the world of functional beers, meeting both taste and wellness expectations. It highlights the potential for continued growth and innovation in non-alcoholic brewing [3].
Influence of Multisensory Science on Consumer Preferences
The way consumers experience functional beers through their senses has reshaped product development in the non-alcoholic beer market. Advances in multisensory science now allow brands to craft beverages that meet both sensory expectations and functional needs.
Psychology of Taste and Relaxation
Sensory elements play a big role in how people perceive beer, but their psychological impact is just as important. Studies reveal that the full sensory experience strongly influences how satisfied consumers feel and how they perceive the benefits of functional non-alcoholic beers.
Neuroscience has shown how the brain processes combined sensory inputs, affecting not just taste but also overall satisfaction and relaxation [1]. This insight has driven innovations aimed at enhancing the psychological appeal of functional beers:
- Relaxation Effects: Pairing sensory cues with functional ingredients to maximize calming properties.
- Social Rituals: Preserving the communal and ceremonial aspects of traditional beer in alcohol-free versions.
- Familiarity: Keeping recognizable sensory features while offering added functionality.
Future Developments in Functional Beverage Design
The functional beer industry has seen breakthroughs in areas like:
- Brewing Techniques: New methods that improve both sensory qualities and the effectiveness of functional ingredients.
- Bioavailability: Better systems for delivering active compounds without losing the essence of traditional beer.
- Personalization: Tailored approaches that cater to individual preferences while ensuring consistent functionality.
Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® are leading the charge, blending traditional brewing with modern functional ingredients to meet changing consumer needs [2][4].
Emerging trends in functional beer design include:
- Precise Control: Fine-tuned timing and release of functional ingredients.
- Sensory Harmony: Better alignment of taste, aroma, and functional properties.
- Wellness Integration: Products designed to fit seamlessly into modern health-focused lifestyles.
These advancements are shaping a new chapter for functional beers, combining sensory enjoyment with wellness benefits in ways that resonate with today’s consumers.
Conclusion: Future of Functional Beers
The combination of sensory science and brewing advancements is changing the game for non-alcoholic beers. With ongoing research into how our senses work together, brewers are crafting alcohol-free options that are not only enjoyable but also offer added health perks.
Key Points
As more people look for drinks that match their wellness goals, three trends are shaping the path forward for functional beers:
- Sensory Integration Technologies: New tools like advanced flavor systems and immersive visuals are making it possible to create more engaging drinking experiences [1]. These technologies help brewers fine-tune taste, aroma, and even appearance, ensuring every sip meets high standards.
- Functional Ingredients: Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® are leading the way by using ingredients like their Social Blend™ to mimic the relaxing effects of alcohol. Impressively, 70% of users report feeling relaxed, and 88% say they’ve cut back on alcohol consumption [2][4].
- Focus on Consumer Needs: The future of these beers lies in creating tailored experiences. Advances in brewing now allow active compounds to be absorbed more effectively, all while maintaining the familiar beer taste [1][3].
With breakthroughs in sensory science and functional ingredients, functional beers are set to play a major role in the beverage market. They offer a unique mix of enjoyment and wellness, perfectly suited for today’s health-conscious drinkers.
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What is IMPOSSIBREW®?
IMPOSSIBREW® is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand based in the UK that aims to create the world's most complete alcohol alternative using patent-pending technology.
Founded by Mark Wong in 2021 and working with some of the world's best professors, scientists and expert brewers, IMPOSSIBREW® specialises in expertly crafted non-alcoholic beers designed to match full ABV beers in both taste and feeling.
Product Range
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a range of enhanced non-alcoholic beers, including:
- Enhanced Lager (0.5% ABV)
- Enhanced Pale Ale (0.5% ABV)
- Limited Editions (Seasonal)
Key Benefits
The key feature that sets IMPOSSIBREW® apart is its proprietary "Social Blend™" - a combination of active botanical ingredients and nootropics using patent-pending technology* designed to recreate the relaxing effects of alcohol without the negative side effects.
Along with record-breaking quality flavour that comes from a unique process without removing alcohol.
Social Blend™ Ingredients
Developed with leading scientists in top UK universities, Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine
- Ashwaghanda
- Soluble Plant Fibres
- Vitamin B1
- Various Plant Extracts.
These ingredients are chosen for their potential to boost serotonin, promote relaxation, and create a calming effect similar to the "one or two pint feeling" without hangovers.
See more details on our very own research paper, with over 1,000 participants:
- More than 70% said they felt relaxed after consuming IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 88% have reduced alcohol consumption since discovering IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 95% have told a friend about IMPOSSIBREW® after trying.
- 3/4 say that IMPOSSIBREW® is "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today".
Recognition
IMPOSSIBREW® has received several notable achievements:
- Featured on BBC's Dragons' Den
- Awarded the first and only Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category from the London Beer Competition
- Received multiple industry Gold awards in categories against Full-ABV beers
- Most followed No/Low Alcohol brand on TikTok globally.
Mission and Vision
IMPOSSIBREW® is on a mission to redefine non-alcoholic drinking by creating better-than-alcohol alternatives for those who love beer but want to avoid the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
The company aims to become the global leading alcohol alternative brand, focusing on helping people transition to a healthier mode of relaxation without the traditional issues and side effects of alcohol.
Production and Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW® combines traditional brewing methods with their proprietary Social Blend™ along with patent-pending technology*
The beers are made with traditional brewing ingredients such as water, malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, in addition to the Social Blend™ components - leveraging their unique cryogenic fermentation process, which means no alcohol is ever removed from the product - ensuring the most authentic quality taste you've come to expect.
Who is it for?
IMPOSSIBREW® caters to consumers who:
- Are busy professionals and parents who would like to unwind with a drink but don't want the hangovers.
- Enjoy the taste and relaxing experience of beer
- Are looking for healthier alternatives to alcohol, with lower calories, carbs and sugar
- Want to avoid hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol consumption
- Are interested in functional beverages with potential mood-enhancing properties
By offering a unique product that aims to replicate both the taste and feeling of alcoholic beer, IMPOSSIBREW® is positioning itself at the forefront of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.
Get Started Today
Give it a try today with our Welcome Bundle and get 2 Free Beers with your first purchase. Get it delivered straight to your door, risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do and we can't wait for you to try.
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
How does 'Social Blend™' work?
Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology*.
Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions).
Developed with Dr Paul Chazot, Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Components and Mechanisms
- L-Theanine:
- Ashwagandha Root:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
- Various nootropic herbs:
Benefits
- Relaxation: The blend promotes a state of relaxation without the sedative effects typically associated with alcohol.
- Mental Calm: By boosting alpha brain waves and serotonin levels, it helps maintain a calm and focused mental state.
- Stress Relief: The combination of L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Vitamin B1 helps mitigate stress and anxiety.
- Mood Enhancement: The inclusion these ingredients and other botanicals supports mood regulation and overall positive outlook.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is a carefully crafted combination of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients designed to offer a relaxing and mood-enhancing experience without the drawbacks of alcohol. It leverages the natural properties of its components to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
(Read our latest research paper here)
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
Do you ship overseas?
We ship to the UK Mainland for free when you spend over £35
We aim to expand internationally soon - stay tuned!
If you have any queries, feel free to email: hello(@)impossibrew.co.uk
How long will it take to get my orders?
For UK mainland deliveries, normal orders processed here will take 1-3 business days to arrive, with an optional upgrade to Next Day Delivery available (12pm cut-off).
Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.
How is 0.5% ABV alcohol-free?
Yes, we know it's confusing. Isn't 0.5% ABV still alcoholic? Officially, 0.5% ABV is classified as Dealcoholised.
- In fact, most things we consume daily have more than 0.5% ABV
- Burger Rolls - 1.2% ABV
- Orange Juice - 0.5% ABV
- Ripe Banana - 0.5% ABV
After more than 2 years of research, we've found that the 0.5% ABV from our natural brewing process significantly increases both flavour and mouthfeel - without spiking your blood alcohol level (BAC).
Is it really gluten-free?
Yes, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager is gluten-free. Even though it contains wheat and barley, our beers have been third-party tested to contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of gluten, which meets the criteria to be listed as, and labeled gluten-free.
Does it have alcohol tax?
No. While it is true that our beers don't contain alcohol, and thus don't incur UK alcohol duty, we'd like to highlight some factors here that might be helpful in reflecting the value we provide.
- One-to-One Brewing Process: At IMPOSSIBREW, we take pride in our unique brewing techniques. Unlike other non-alcoholic beers, our products are never diluted, watered-down, or have their alcohol content removed - and some even dilute their alcoholic beers up to 5x. This means that our brewing process involves the same level of craftsmanship, time, and resources as a traditional craft beer, resulting in comparable production costs.
- Effective Nootropics: In our commitment to creating the most relaxing non-alcoholic beers, we utilise only the highest quality nootropics as our active ingredients, in safe and effectives dosages. At current alcohol tax rates for a 5% ABV beer, the cost of our nootropics more than double that. Instead of contributing the amounts as tax, why not have it contribute to the product quality itself?
- Small Scale Brewing: Currently, we operate on a smaller scale, which makes us less competitive than large, commercial brewers (often +10,000x our brewing size). As a growing business, we are passionate about our mission to create unique, high-quality non-alcoholic experiences, and we truly appreciate your support. As we continue to grow and expand our production capabilities, we look forward to passing on even more savings to our valued community!
At IMPOSSIBREW, we prioritise offering our customers an enhanced, premium, non-alcoholic beer experience by combining innovative brewing techniques, quality active nootropic ingredients, and award-winning taste. While our pricing may differ from other non-alcoholic competitors, we believe that the value proposition and unique experience our beers provide are well worth it.
At the end of the day, tasting is believing. So give it a try and let us know what you think - risk-free with our IMPOSSIBREW® Guarantee.
Who shouldn't drink IMPOSSIBREW®?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with certain medical conditions like GI disorders or hypertension, or individuals taking specific medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners. If you fall into any of these categories, it's best to consult with your doctor first.
Ashwagandha can lead to overstimulation (i.e. restlessness) if taken alongside thyroid medication.
What is your philosophy?
For thousands of years, we had only one way to unwind together. One way to let our guards down. One way to bridge the gap between who we are and who we are with others.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was all we had.
We decided that wasn't good enough.
We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise.
Where being present with others doesn't mean being absent from yourself. Where letting go doesn't mean losing control.This isn't about removing alcohol. This is about something better.
Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before.
We believe the greatest innovations don't just solve problems - they change how we live. They make us question why we ever settled for less.
That's what we're building. Not just a drink, but a new way forward. A future where social connection comes without compromise. Where tradition meets innovation. Where science meets ritual.
This is the future of social drinking.
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Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 9am - 5:30pm.
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