Which packaging choice helps prevent skunking in beer?

Which packaging choice helps prevent skunking in beer?

• A. Clear glass bottles.
• B. Light-colored cans without protective packaging.
• C. Transparent packaging that lets in light.
• D. Dark bottles and protective packaging or storing in dark areas.

Answer: (D)

Light exposure is what causes beer to go skunky. When beer is hit by ultraviolet light, the hops’ compounds react in the presence of other ingredients to form a strong, unpleasant skunky aroma. Packaging that blocks light stops those reactions from happening, helping preserve the beer’s aroma and flavor. Dark bottles and protective packaging or storing in dark areas keep the beer out of light, so skunking is minimized. The other options let light through, which accelerates the formation of that off aroma.

Light exposure is what causes beer to go skunky. When beer is hit by ultraviolet light, the hops’ compounds react in the presence of other ingredients to form a strong, unpleasant skunky aroma. Packaging that blocks light stops those reactions from happening, helping preserve the beer’s aroma and flavor. Dark bottles and protective packaging or storing in dark areas keep the beer out of light, so skunking is minimized. The other options let light through, which accelerates the formation of that off aroma.