Scientists agree: If your beer tastes bad, the color of the bottle could be the reason

It may not seem like it, but beer is one of the most delicate beverages around. Factors that appear insignificant, such as serving it in a frozen glass or pouring it without a proper head of foam, can noticeably affect its flavor. The color of the bottle it comes in can be just as important.

Why the color of the bottle protects the beer

According to numerous scientific sources, including The Oxford Companion to Beer, the study Mechanism for Formation of the Lightstruck Flavour in Beer, and the chemistry education websites Compound Interest and Chemistry LibreTexts, the main purpose of a beer bottle is to protect the liquid from ultraviolet (UV) light.

To shield beer from what’s known as “lightstruck” damage, brewers use different types of packaging. The best options are kegs and aluminum cans, which completely block light and do the best job of preserving the fresh flavor of hops. Amber or brown bottles perform almost as well, helping maintain the beer’s original taste. Green bottles offer much less protection, while clear bottles leave the beer almost completely exposed to UV light.

What is “lightstruck” damage in beer?

When beer is exposed to sunlight, a destructive chemical reaction begins. Ultraviolet light breaks down the iso-alpha acids derived from hops. These altered compounds then react with sulfur-containing molecules, creating a chemical responsible for an unpleasant smell and taste that can spoil the beer very quickly. The reaction is commonly known as the “skunky” flavor or “lightstruck” flavor.

The same process can occur once beer is poured into a glass, although it is usually less of a concern because people tend to drink it more quickly. In a clear glass, however, the beer is fully exposed to sunlight. If you’re sitting outside on a sunny patio, the skunky flavor can begin to develop in less than 10 minutes. That’s one reason why events such as Oktoberfest often favor opaque steins, ceramic mugs, or even beer mugs with lids to better protect the drink from light.

See also: Master brewers agree: “Beer foam is like Captain America’s shield”

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.