My good friend emailed this article to me 'Brewing Hoppy Beer Without Hops' and naturally I was intrigued. University of Berkely biologists have developed strains of brewers yeast that mimic hop flavours without actually using hops!
As home brewers we all know making that super dank east coast IPA is going to cost you. Of course it's still less than buying it, and way more rewarding because you created it. These scientists added genes from basil and mint, and apparently have created yeast that not only ferments your beer, but adds in the exact characteristics of hops into your beer with no off flavours.
Why you might ask? Well hops use valuable land, resources, water and if they can add it directly into yeast without the wasted resources, I guess it's a win. I'd like to ask, does this make it a GMO? (disclaimer, I am NOT a scientist!)
According to this article in double blind taste tests the yeast was given a thumbs up by the employees at Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma, California.
https://brausupply.com/blogs/news/the-comprehensive-guide-to-mash-ph-in-all-grain-brewing
https://brausupply.com/blogs/news/what-causes-a-fermenter-to-heat-up
https://brausupply.com/blogs/news/a-beginners-guide-to-electric-brewing
https://brausupply.com/blogs/news/mastering-the-cold-side-of-brewing-a-comprehensive-guide
