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We observed qualitative changes in the chemical and aroma profile of Hallertau Mittelfrüh (HA) hop pellets after storage under prooxidative conditions. It was hypothesized that lager beer dry-hopped with oxidized HA hops would impact both the qualitative attributes related to “noble” hop aroma in the finished beer and consumer acceptance. Lager beer was dry-hopped using both properly stored and oxidized hops at two different hopping rates (3.8 and 1.5 g/L). Trained panelists using descriptive analysis evaluated the beer dry-hopped at 3.8 g/L. At this dosing rate, significant qualitative changes were observed in the beer as a result of using oxidized hops, showing differences in the attributes woody and herbal, which are associated with noble hop aroma. Sixty consumers rated their acceptance of the beers dry-hopped at a lower rate of 1.5 g/L, and no significant difference in overall liking was found between the hop preparations. Although changes in hop oil chemistry occur as a result of oxidation, these changes may not adversely affect overall liking of beer prepared with oxidized hops, but may serve as a way to enhance noble hop aroma in lager beer. Keywords: Dry hopping, Hallertau Mittelfrüh, Consumer acceptance, Oxidation
