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Science Behind Functional Plant Extracts in Beer
Did you know? Plant extracts are transforming beer, especially in non-alcoholic options, offering relaxation, better taste, and fewer calories. Here's what you need to know:
- What are plant extracts? Concentrated compounds from plants, like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha, used to enhance flavour, relaxation, and nutrition in beer.
- Why does it matter? Over 71% of people feel calmer, and 88% reduce alcohol intake after trying beers with these extracts.
- How is it done? Advanced brewing methods ensure consistent quality, taste, and benefits without compromising the beer experience.
- Who’s leading? Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® use proprietary blends to create vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie non-alcoholic beers.
Plant extracts are changing beer production, making it healthier and more sustainable while still delivering great taste. Dive into the details below.
Lisa Ganora and Sam Coffman - Plant Chemistry, Cannabis ...
Research on Plant Extracts in Beer
Scientific studies have shed light on how plant extracts play a role in beer production while offering benefits to consumers. Recent findings highlight their functional contributions to brewing.
Health Effects of Plant Extracts
Research led by Dr Paul Chazot, a Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University, has shown encouraging results when plant extracts are used in brewing. A study involving more than 1,000 participants revealed that 71% reported feeling more relaxed after consuming beverages containing specific plant compounds [1].
Additionally, 88% of participants reduced their alcohol consumption as a result of these formulations [1]. These findings have prompted further investigation into the potential uses of specific plant extracts in brewing.
Common Plant Extracts in Brewing
Modern brewing has identified several plant extracts that serve distinct purposes:
| Plant Extract | Primary Function | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| L-Theanine | Promotes relaxation | Encourages mental calm |
| Ashwagandha Root | Helps with stress | Supports emotional balance |
| Soluble Plant Fibres | Adds nutritional value | Boosts overall nutrition |
| Vitamin B1 | Enhances mood | Contributes to a positive mood |
When integrated effectively, these plant extracts can replicate the sensory experience of traditional beers. In fact, 75% of consumers describe these beverages as "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available" [1].
These insights highlight the ability of plant extracts to mimic the taste and feel of conventional beer, offering an alternative without the typical downsides of alcohol. This paves the way for new and exciting approaches in brewing.
Brewing Methods with Plant Extracts
Using plant extracts in brewing requires careful techniques and close monitoring. Advances in brewing technology now allow for incorporating these ingredients without compromising the consistency of the final product. Below, we’ll explore some of the methods brewers use to achieve this balance.
Extract Addition Techniques
The timing and method of adding plant extracts play a big role in the final flavour and quality of the brew. Brewers typically use three main approaches:
| Stage | Method | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-fermentation | Adding extracts to the wort | Blends well with base flavours |
| Post-fermentation | Controlled infusion | Maintains the properties of extracts |
| Blending | Mixing after production | Allows precise control over flavour |
Temperature control is crucial. For example, heat-stable compounds are added during brewing, while temperature-sensitive extracts are introduced during conditioning to avoid degradation.
Dosage Control
Maintaining consistent extract levels requires advanced tools and strict quality checks. Brewers use techniques like:
- Digital dosing for precision
- Near-infrared spectroscopy for real-time monitoring
- Automated checkpoints to ensure consistency throughout production
Each batch undergoes thorough testing to ensure the extracts are balanced and stable. This includes testing extract potency before production, monitoring during the brewing process, and analysing the final product. These steps ensure every batch delivers consistent flavour and quality.
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Plant Extracts and Resource Efficiency
Using concentrated plant extracts in brewing helps manage resources more effectively. It reduces the need for raw materials, cuts down water and energy consumption, and requires less storage space, all while improving processing workflows.
Resource Benefits
Switching to concentrated extracts can lower the demand for raw ingredients. This shift often means using less water and energy and needing less storage space compared to traditional brewing methods. Additionally, moving from bulky fresh materials to compact and stable extracts can streamline processing and transport.
Current Limits and Solutions
While the benefits are clear, there are still some challenges to overcome:
- Extract Stability: Temperature changes and exposure to light can weaken the potency of extracts. To handle this, methods like UV-protected storage, temperature control, and the use of natural stabilisers are being tested.
- Standardisation: Maintaining consistent extract concentrations across batches is a challenge. Solutions include advanced analytics, automated dosing systems, and strict extraction protocols to ensure uniformity.
- Cost Considerations: The initial expense of processing equipment can be high. However, lower storage and transport costs, along with reduced waste, often balance out these upfront costs over time.
Research and development efforts continue to refine these processes, aiming to make resource use more efficient and ensure consistent results.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Applications
Plant extracts play a key role in non-alcoholic beer, offering both functional benefits and great taste. This allows brewers to craft alcohol-free options that don't compromise on flavour or experience.
Current Market Products
Using IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ technology, advanced extract processing has led to gluten-free options with less than 10 PPM of gluten. These beers are also low in calories, with some containing just 27 calories per serving [1]. This approach not only improves the nutritional profile but also ensures a satisfying sensory experience.
Consumer feedback highlights consistent quality across batches, which has helped these products gain traction in the market [1]. These improvements are driving growth and increasing acceptance of non-alcoholic beers.
Market Growth and Demand
Thanks to advancements in extract processing, plant-based formulations are being adopted more widely. This trend reflects growing interest in healthier beverage choices that are also resource-efficient.
"We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise." - IMPOSSIBREW® [1]
Since its launch in 2021, IMPOSSIBREW® has achieved impressive milestones:
- Distributed over 1 million beers by 2024
- Maintained a 4.8/5 customer rating
- Developed patent-pending extraction technology
- Created vegan-friendly formulations
These achievements resonate with consumers looking for the social and sensory enjoyment of beer without the effects of alcohol. This demand continues to drive innovation in using plant extracts for non-alcoholic brewing.
Conclusion
Key Benefits
Plant extracts have transformed the non-alcoholic beer market by offering improved flavours and wellness-focused options. Studies involving over 1,000 participants highlight how advanced formulations, including adaptogens and nootropics, promote relaxation without relying on alcohol. This development has struck a chord with consumers looking for healthier choices that still deliver an enjoyable experience.
Industry Trends
The industry is set for further evolution, building on recent research and innovative techniques. Since 2021, IMPOSSIBREW® has been at the forefront, combining traditional brewing with plant extract technology to create leading non-alcoholic beers. Notable advancements include:
- Patent-pending extraction methods pushing the boundaries of functional brewing
- Increased consumer interest, with 88% of users cutting back on traditional alcohol consumption [1]
- A wider selection of vegan-friendly and gluten-free options
- Award-winning products setting new benchmarks for quality
These ongoing innovations highlight the role of functional plant extracts in shaping the brewing industry's future, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for healthier lifestyle choices.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of using plant extracts in beer?
Plant extracts in beer can offer a range of functional and health-enhancing properties, making them an innovative addition to brewing. These extracts often contain natural compounds like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may support overall well-being. For example, certain botanicals are known to promote relaxation, aid digestion, or even boost immunity.
Non-alcoholic beers that incorporate plant extracts, such as those crafted by IMPOSSIBREW®, are designed to deliver a similar sensory and social experience to traditional alcoholic drinks, but without the negative effects of alcohol. This makes them a great option for those looking to enjoy a healthier lifestyle while still savouring the taste and experience of beer.
What challenges do brewers face when using plant extracts in beer, and how are these overcome?
Incorporating plant extracts into beer presents several challenges for brewers. These include ensuring the extracts do not overpower the beer's natural flavours, maintaining a consistent taste profile across batches, and addressing potential interactions between the extracts and other brewing ingredients.
To overcome these challenges, brewers rely on precise formulation techniques and extensive testing. By carefully selecting high-quality plant extracts and using advanced brewing methods, they can achieve a harmonious balance of flavours and retain the functional benefits of the extracts. This approach ensures that the final product meets both taste and quality expectations.
How do plant extracts improve the flavour and sensory experience of non-alcoholic beer?
Plant extracts play a key role in enhancing both the flavour and sensory qualities of non-alcoholic beer. By incorporating natural compounds derived from plants, brewers can introduce unique taste profiles, ranging from floral and citrus notes to earthy and herbal undertones. These extracts can also add depth and complexity to the beer, making it more enjoyable and satisfying.
In addition to taste, certain plant extracts are known for their functional benefits, such as promoting relaxation or boosting well-being. When carefully formulated, these ingredients not only elevate the sensory experience but also contribute to a more holistic and enjoyable alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
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Got Questions?
Find our most commonly asked questions below or ask our AI Brewer for instant answers.
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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