Yeast and Fermentation Session
Eryn Bottens, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
Co-author(s): Jeb Hollabaugh and Thomas Shellhammer, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
ABSTRACT: Fermentation time in the cellar directly affects
potential brewery production as a whole. It is of practical interest to
decrease the time needed where possible and increase efficiency.
Decreased lag time in beer fermentations allows for higher production
and efficiency in the brewery as well as decreased risk of
contamination. This study examined the use of methylsulfonylmethane
(MSM) as a nutrient supplement to stimulate yeast growth during
fermentation. Small-scale (1 L), stirred fermentations were carried out
at 15°C using a German lager yeast in a lightly hopped 11°P wort made
from 70% pale 2-row malt and 30% high-glucose liquid adjunct. Two
pitching rates were examined, 1 × 106 and 1 × 105
cell/mL °P, and four levels of MSM (0, 0.25, 0.5, and 075%, w/w).
Fermentation gravity and viable cell counts were monitored throughout
fermentation until the final attenuation was achieved (approximately 5
days). The application of 0.25% (w/w) MSM resulted in the shortest lag
time in both adequately (1 × 106 cell/mL °P) and under-pitched (1 × 105
cell/mL °P) ferments. Additionally, this treatment reached stable,
maximum cell counts and final gravity the quickest. Increased
concentrations of MSM trended with higher terminal gravities and lower
fermentability irrespective of pitching rate. Application of MSM to beer
fermentations has the potential to decrease lag time and increase peak
rate in beer fermentations.
Eryn Bottens is an undergraduate
student seeking a degree in fermentation science from Oregon State
University. Eryn works as a research brewery assistant in the brewing
science lab and pilot plant. Eryn’s assignment includes brewery
production, analysis, and sensory work. Eryn is also involved in the
Food and Fermentation Science Club in the role of brewmaster. Eryn has
interned as a cellarman at Pelican Brewery and Pub in Pacific City, OR.
VIEW PRESENTATION 231
