Researchers are now studying how microgravity affects fermentation processes, particularly beer production, which may be important for humanity’s survival beyond Earth.
Fermentation has been used by various civilizations not only to create alcohol, but also for bread, pickles, and other foods. Modern technology makes it possible to apply these same principles to the production of pharmaceuticals and biofuels. Therefore, when planning for life on the Moon or Mars, the ability to ferment will be key to the success of the missions.
A team at the University of Florida (UF/IFAS) has conducted the first beer fermentation experiment in microgravity. Their study showed that microgravity could not only accelerate fermentation, but also improve the quality of the final product.
Instead of taking the equipment to the International Space Station, the students created a microgravity simulator on Earth. They turned local barley into mash and divided it into six samples, adding Saccharomyces pastrorianus yeast to them. Three samples were left as controls and the rest were placed in a clinostat to simulate microgravity. They evaluated yeast density, number and viability for three days.
The results confirmed the hypothesis that microgravity doesn’t harm fermentation, but even speeds it up. Additionally, it is found that yeast in microgravity can produce better products. This is due to a gene that controls the level of ester fermentation byproducts responsible for the flavor of beer.
The ratio between the high alcohol groups and the number of esters in the microgravity beer was 4.6:1, meaning a less flavorful beer.Some esters, such as isoamyl acetate and 2-phenethyl acetate, had lower concentrations, which reduced the fruity, banana flavor considered undesirable in beer.
Thus, microgravity may contribute to the production of higher quality beer with fewer defects. However, the researchers haven’t tasted their drinks yet, as they used standardized recipes for scientific purposes.
We previously reported on how microgravity affected vision.
According to popsci.com
