50 years of international DLG quality tests for beer

Hallmark of quality | For 50 years, international DLG quality tests for beer have been a hallmark of the outstanding quality of beers brewed according to the German Purity Law. This anniversary is a milestone in the history of beer production and evaluation. The test procedure of the DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft or German Agricultural Society) has continuously further developed since its inception and established itself as one of the most eminent institutions for the assessment of beer in Europe.

Providing important added value

New EBC President | The baton was handed over at this year’s EBC Congress in Lille at the end of May 2024. There, Benet Fité took his leave as President of the EBC and Paul Lefebvre, 6th generation owner of the Lefebvre brewery in Quenast, Belgium, took over. This is the first time in a long time that a representative of the medium-sized brewing industry has been at the helm of Europe’s largest institution for the promotion of brewing science. BRAUWELT International spoke to Paul Lefebvre about his plans and ideas for the EBC.

Chicago | The World Brewing Academy (WBA) Master Brewer Program, organized by the renowned schools Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago and Doemens Academy in Munich,  will take place from 3 March to 1 Aug. 2025.

Independent Brewers of Europe: a new voice for beer culture

Austria | Europe's independent breweries are rising up against the Big Brewers’ market power. They seek to counter the trend towards standardised flavours with a conscious commitment to diversity and regional brewing culture, Austrian media reported on 19 September.

Brussels | Julia Leferman has officially assumed her role as the new Secretary General of The Brewers of Europe, with a bold vision to position beer at the centre of European Union policy. Leferman’s leadership will focus on driving innovation, promoting responsible consumption and enhancing sustainability across the continent.

On 1 August, The International Hop Standards Committee (IHSC) announces the nomination of a new co-chairman, John Paul Maye, who will represent the American Society of Brewing Chemists (ASBC). After serving 14 years as co-chairman, Bob Foster has retired, and the committee would like to thank Bob for all his years of service. John Paul Maye will also continue as Secretary of the IHSC.

The Brewers of Europe | The 2023 Edition of the European Beer Trends Report reveals that beer sales in the European Union rose to 313 million hectolitres in 2022, up from 301 million hl in 2021 and 297 million hl in 2020, although still not yet at the pre-pandemic level of 322 million hl in 2019.

The Brewers of Europe | After MEPs voted for a flawed draft Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) proposal at the end of November 2023, The Brewers of Europe calls on the EU’s Council of Ministers to close the loopholes that weaken the planned rules.

Further education | The World Brewing Academy (WBA) 20-week Master Brewer program and 12-week International Diploma in Brewing Technology program will begin February 12th, 2024, at the Siebel Institute campus in Chicago. With limited seats available for these two advanced-level programs, enrollments are accepted on a first come/first served basis.