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Skunked! How Sunlight Steals the Soul of Your Beer

Ah, beer. A refreshing beverage enjoyed by many, crafted with love and precision by brewers worldwide. But there's a silent enemy lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike – light. That's right, sunlight can wreak havoc on your precious pint, transforming it from a hoppy delight to a skunky, undrinkable mess. Let's delve into the science behind this phenomenon and explore ways to protect your beer from this luminous foe.

The Culprit: Riboflavin & Skunky Odours:

Sunlight contains invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays. In hops, a molecule called riboflavin absorbs these rays. Unfortunately, the excited riboflavin reacts with other hop compounds, creating a chemical called 3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol (3MBT). This compound, with its distinctive "skunky" aroma (think wet cardboard or skunk spray), is the culprit behind that unpleasant smell and taste associated with lightstruck beer.

Signs Your Beer Has Gone Bad:

While the skunky aroma is the giveaway, there are other signs to watch out for:

  • Colour change: Light exposure can bleach hops, making your beer appear lighter or faded.
  • Loss of flavour: The delicate hop aromas and flavours are the first victims of lightstruck damage.
  • Increased bitterness: While some hop bitterness remains, the overall taste profile becomes unbalanced and harsh.


Protecting Your Precious Pints:

So, how do you shield your beer from this luminous foe? Here are some tips:

  • Store beer in darkness: Opt for brown or green glass bottles that block UV rays. Cardboard boxes or opaque coolers offer additional protection. 
  • Mind your fridge: Fluorescent lights can emit UV rays. Store beer in the back of the fridge where it's darkest.
  • Buy fresh, drink fresh: The fresher the beer, the less time it has been exposed to potential light sources.
  • Be mindful at bars and restaurants: Check if their outdoor seating has umbrellas or shade to protect exposed beer.


Remember: By understanding the science of lightstruck beer and taking proper precautions, you can ensure your next sip is a symphony of flavour, not a skunky symphony of disappointment. So, raise a glass (in the shade, of course!) to enjoying delicious beer, free from the clutches of the luminous enemy.

Bonus Tip: Share this knowledge with your fellow beer lovers! Spread the word and help protect the world's precious pints from the skunky fate!

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