___ are responsible for bitterness in hops.

___ are responsible for bitterness in hops.

• A. Alpha acids
• B. Beta acids
• C. Aldehydes
• D. Proteins

Answer: (A)

Bitterness in beer mainly comes from alpha acids in hops. When hops are boiled, these alpha acids isomerize into iso-alpha acids, which are the primary bitter compounds that give beer its bite. The level of bitterness you get depends on how much alpha acid is present in the hops and how long you boil them. Beta acids exist but contribute less to the boil-induced bitterness and can influence aging flavors. Aldehydes contribute aroma and some delicate flavors rather than the main bitterness, and proteins affect body and foam rather than bitterness.

Bitterness in beer mainly comes from alpha acids in hops. When hops are boiled, these alpha acids isomerize into iso-alpha acids, which are the primary bitter compounds that give beer its bite. The level of bitterness you get depends on how much alpha acid is present in the hops and how long you boil them. Beta acids exist but contribute less to the boil-induced bitterness and can influence aging flavors. Aldehydes contribute aroma and some delicate flavors rather than the main bitterness, and proteins affect body and foam rather than bitterness.