Beer Storage: Everything an Importer Needs to Know

For importers of beer, the journey from brewery to consumer demands a keen understanding of beer storage. The flavors and aromas of this beloved beverage are easily influenced by various factors, making storage an essential aspect of protecting the quality of the product. In this article, we explore the best practices for beer storage, the impact of temperature and humidity,and considerations for packaging, transport, and in-store shelf placement.

What is the best way to store beer?

To preserve the flavors and characteristics that brewers carefully craft, beer must be stored in a cool, dark place. Exposure to sunlight can result in the dreaded "skunky" flavor caused by the breakdown of hop compounds. Ideally, beer should be stored upright to minimize oxidation, which can adversely affect taste.

What’s the ideal temperature to store and serve beer?

Temperature plays a pivotal role in the life of beer. Maintaining a consistent and cool temperature is crucial to preserving its integrity. The ideal storage temperature for most beers falls between 45°F to 55°F (7°C to 13°C). This range helps prevent excessive ageing and maintains the beer's freshness. Importers must ensure that their storage facilities adhere to these temperature guidelines to safeguard the quality of the beer during transit and warehousing.

How sensitive is beer to extreme temperatures?

Beer stored above 21°C might experience accelerated aging, a decline in bitterness, and probable haze formation, especially if combined with motion. Temperatures above 30°C could cause taint contamination due to lacquer breakdown in cans or crown corks.

On the other hand, temperatures below 5°C can lead to package damage, such as split cans or broken bottles if freezing occurs. Beer stored in clear or green glass bottles might change flavour at any temperature if exposed to sunlight or fluorescent lights.

Is it OK to store beer at room temperature?

While beer storage at room temperature is generally acceptable for short periods, prolonged exposure to higher temperatures can lead to accelerated ageing and undesirable changes in flavor. Importers should prioritise climate-controlled storage to mitigate the risks associated with fluctuating temperatures.

How long does beer last?

The longevity of beer depends on various factors, including the style of beer, alcohol content, and storage conditions. However, certain high-alcohol and barrel-aged beers can develop complex flavors over time if stored properly. Importers should be mindful of the beer's shelf life and could prioritize a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory management system to ensure freshness. Less than container load (LCL) shipping will also allow you to import smaller quantities more frequently, so you don’t have to worry about beer sitting in storage.

Does beer last longer in bottles or cans?

The debate between bottles and cans is ongoing, with both offering distinct advantages. Beer storage in cans provides superior protection against light and oxygen, ensuring a longer shelf life and preserving the beer's quality. On the other hand, bottles, especially dark glass ones, offer a traditional appeal and are suitable for certain beer styles. Importers must consider the preferences of their target market and the characteristics of the beers they import when choosing packaging.

Different ways to package beer

Beer comes in various packaging, each with its unique advantages. Bottles, cans, kegs, growlers, stubbies, bombers, and nips are among the options available. Growlers, typically large glass containers, are popular for draft beer to-go, while stubbies and bombers refer to smaller and larger bottles, respectively. Nips are tiny bottles, ideal for tasting or sharing smaller quantities. Kegs, of course, are the standard for serving beer on tap. Importers should carefully consider the preferences of their clientele and the specific requirements of the beers they import when selecting packaging options.

Container options for beer storage and transport

Selecting the right packaging for transporting beer is crucial in preserving its quality. Importers often choose between kegs, bottles, and cans based on the destination, volume, and nature of the beer as well as consumer preferences in your market. Kegs are suitable for large quantities served on-trade at bars and restaurants, while bottles and cans offer convenience and protection for retail. Ensuring secure packaging, especially for fragile craft beers, is essential to prevent breakage and spoilage during transit.

Protecting beer bottle labels

Protecting the labels on your bottles is just as important as protecting what’s inside. Labels are also susceptible to damage during transit and storage. For example, extreme temperatures can soften the adhesives and cause labels to peel off. Additionally, the combination of temperature decreases and high relative humidity (RH) can cause condensation (container rain), which damages labels. 

Factors that can impact label quality and integrity include:

• The paper used (uncoated, coated, metallised, film)
• The paper stock, thickness and calibre
• The label type (single/multiple layer; high-gloss/semi-gloss/matte finishes; etc.)
• The surface condition, contour and shape of the bottle
• The coatings and adhesives used in application
• The storage and transportation conditions of the bottle once the label has been applied.

How humidity affects beer packaging

Cardboard packaging is essential to protecting your beer during transport, but cardboard is also sensitive to the same environmental factors, especially moisture. Studies show that the elastic properties of corrugated cardboard change significantly beyond 70% relative humidity (RH). Bending stiffness falls by 54% when the RH reaches 90%. From 50%, the relative humidity causes:

• An increase in the gross weight and in the dimensions of the cardboard
• A loss of its resistance properties
• A loss of its compression performances, thus reducing the resistance to compression.

Hillberand Gori’s insulation liners for beer transportation

To keep your beer, labels, and packaging in pristine condition, Hillebrand Gori offers our patented insulation liners for extra protection during transportation. Our fully recyclable insulation liners protect your beer against everything that could impact its quality including:

• Thermal stocks
• Extreme temperatures
• Extreme high/low humidity
• Container rain (condensation)
• Cross-contamination
• Bad smells

Check your beer’s temperature with myHillberandGori

With the myHillebrandgori app, you can check temperature and humidity data as your beer makes its journey. You can also use myHillebrandGori to:

• Follow the location of your beer during the whole journey.
• Communicate with everyone involved in the supply chain. 
• Instantly review order details, SKUs, and product codes.
• Get real-time updates with push notifications.
• Track CO2 emissions for each leg of the journey.
• Manage your order to prevent delays and minimize transportation costs.

In-store shelf storage and beer refrigerators

Once beer reaches its destination, proper in-store shelf storage becomes imperative. Retailers should prioritize placing beer in cool, dark areas away from direct sunlight. Specialized beer refrigerators provide an added layer of protection, ensuring that the beer is maintained at an optimal temperature for customers. Implementing a rotational system and regularly checking expiration dates contribute to a positive consumer experience and promote the reputation of both the retailer and the imported beer.

Best beer storage solutions by Hillebrand Gori

Beer storage is a science that directly impacts the quality of this beloved beverage. The journey from brewery to glass is a collaborative effort, and logistics providers play a crucial role in ensuring that the beer is treated with the care it deserves. That’s why Hillebrand Gori offers storage in our temperature-controlled warehouses and refrigerated or insulated containers.

By understanding the ideal storage conditions, selecting appropriate packaging, and prioritizing proper handling during transportation, logistics providers and importers collaborate to preserve the quality of beer. Contact us today for a quote and learn more about Hillebrand Gori’s beverage storage and transportation services.

Published 31st January 2024