Climate change poses a threat to the beloved British pint as rising temperatures and drier conditions have led to a significant decline in hop production. Scientists in Kent are collaborating with the brewing industry to develop solutions to safeguard the future of beer.
Hops, essential for the bitter taste in beer, are particularly vulnerable to the changing climate. Researchers are isolating hop genes to create more resilient varieties capable of withstanding hotter and drier conditions. Additionally, they aim to enhance flavor profiles to meet evolving consumer preferences.
Danielle Whelan of Shepherd Neame brewery emphasizes the cultural significance of the British pint, warning that without intervention, it may vanish, leaving the country reliant on beer imports.
The impact of climate change is already felt by brewers like Eddie Gadd, who witnesses fluctuating hop harvests firsthand. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, efforts are underway to identify drought-resistant genes that can be crossbred with existing varieties.
Dr. Helen Cockerton, leading the research at the University of Kent, highlights the dual focus of the project: improving flavor while enhancing resilience to environmental stressors. By analyzing the genetic makeup of different hop varieties, researchers aim to accelerate the breeding process.
Dr. Klara Hajdu, collaborating with Wye Hops, expresses optimism about the project’s potential to produce new hop varieties suited to changing climatic conditions. Experimental varieties will undergo rigorous testing, including brewing, to assess their viability.
Eddie Gadd, the master brewer, expresses confidence in the project’s ability to yield intense flavors even in the face of climate challenges. The initiative, part of a broader research endeavor funded by the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra), aims to future-proof UK food production against climate change-related threats.
Farming Minister Mark Spencer applauds such initiatives, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting innovation in agriculture. Through collaborative efforts, researchers and brewers strive to preserve the tradition of the British pint amidst the realities of climate change.
Check out the full article here: Fears for the future of the great British pint of beer - BBC News