14th Trends in Brewing: Beer & Society

The International Malting and Brewing Symposium 14th Trends in Brewing had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It will now take place from 17–20 October 2021. For the first time, the venue is located in the renowned historical centre of Leuven.

This symposium is jointly organized by KU Leuven, TU Berlin, University of Nottingham, Oregon State University, the Italian Brewing Research Centre, the Siebel Institute of Technology and Ghent University, with kindly support by co-organizer J. De Clerck Chair XVII.

This edition’s conference theme ‘Beer & Society’ is focusing on topics beyond the technical aspects of malting and brewing. The lectures and poster presentations are organized into four thematic sessions.

The “Sustainability” session explores new and innovative ways on how improved sustainability is tackled by the malting and brewing industry.

The “Diversification” session broadly targets research and developments in flavor technology, the use and application of non-conventional ingredients and brewing technologies, alternative lagering methods and new products (hybrid and infused products).

A large part of the “Well-being” session will focus on non-alcoholic and low-alcoholic beers (NABLABs), since their market share is steadily growing and their development is a prime focus of many breweries.

Brewers strive to create the ultimate consumer experience with their products. This experience is not only created by the beer itself (including sensory perception) but also by other factors such as branding/marketing and packaging. The session on “Experience” focuses on this area.

The symposium is aimed to bring together malting and brewing researchers, scientists, and technologists from universities, companies and institutes to provide them a unique international platform for sharing new ideas and discovering promising trends and developments in malt and beer production. Scientific findings and technological advances will be presented through invited lectures, peer-reviewed lectures and posters, in combination with an extensive technical exhibition. The symposium will also allow to visit local industrial maltsters and breweries. By combining the scientific program with a variety of social events, the 14th Trends in Brewing will be a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and contacts, and to consolidate continuous efforts for innovation in malting and brewing.

The local organizing committee will be working with all partners to finalize the practical arrangements to be able to meet under safe circumstances. For more detailed information and the latest updates, please visit www.trendsinbrewing.org.