Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do I need to get IBU or ABV tests performed when I can calculate those values?
- What do the Color test results tell me? How is it useful?
- I sell my beer as fast as I can make it, what benefit would these tests be to me?
- If I don’t have any contamination problems, what’s the benefit of the Process Control package?
- Why test the foam?
- How should I ship my packaged brews to you? What if we don’t package our beers?
- Will transit time negatively affect my results?
- If analysis is not a priority, why do all of the larger breweries analyze every batch?
- How do I contact Alpha Analytics?
Why do I need to get IBU or ABV tests performed when I can calculate those values?
Although alcohol by volume (ABV) is not required by law to be on the packaged product within the U.S., you can be fined if the alcohol content does match federal tests. This test provides you with the most accurate ABV to place on your bottles, menus or chalkboards.
The IBU test will reveal how accurate your recipe calculations are to the actual product. If your calculations and final product results vary greatly, modifications of the recipe may be required. Both of these tests allow you, the brewer, to maintain consistency in each product as the raw materials used change.
What do the Color test results tell me? How is it useful?
Color is one criterion on which consumers judge a beer, but it is also one of the first indicators of any variance in the brewing process. Color testing is most effective when it’s performed regularly because any inconsistency or irregularity in the process can alter the color of your brew.
I sell my beer as fast as I can make it, what benefit would these tests be to me?
Our fastest packages have a 48 hour turn around time to accommodate the fastest selling beers. These quick results will provide insight into your beers by providing greater control of the characteristics of your beer, ensuring the quality that you and your customers desire, and allowing for a greater understanding of your brew system.
If I don’t have any contamination problems, what’s the benefit of the Process Control package?
Many brewers operate under the assumption that if they use the right sanitizer and perform the correct cleaning processes, their system is free of contaminants. However, major contamination can occur at any time if brewers and assistants are not careful, especially where debris can build up (i.e. heat exchanger, filters, and bottling equipment). The Process Control test is designed to diagnose and pinpoint any areas of contamination.
Why test the foam?
Consumers judge beer based on how it appears in the glass, and head retention is a very important factor to building and increasing brand loyalty.
How should I ship my packaged brews to you? What if we don’t package our beers?
You can either ship the required number of packaged beers on your carrier of choice (preferably with 2 day delivery time) or you can request an 8 oz sterile container by submitting a request here. For those not requesting a container, refer to our shipping instructions. The sterile container package will contain instructions on how to properly obtain a sample, shipping instructions, and an analysis request form to ensure that foreign contaminants are not introduced into the sample.
Will transit time negatively affect my results?
The time in transit should not negatively affect your beer. However, we suggest that you ship your beers to Alpha Analytics™ within two days to minimize the possibility of adverse effects on your results.
If analysis is not a priority, why do all of the larger breweries analyze every batch?
Regular testing provides much more than just numbers; it provides reliability, consistency, and traceability which, in turn, builds brand loyalty and increases sales.
How do I contact Alpha Analytics?
Submit your inquiries via the Contact Us page or call 1-877-875-6642.
