pH probe and pH buffer solutions for brewing

pH in the brewing process

Discover why correct pH measurement is crucial for the quality, taste and shelf life of beer, wine and other drinks. Read how to check pH accurately with a pH meter or measuring system and which Meytec pH probes and pH buffer solutions support you best.

In the brewery, pH is one of the most decisive parameters throughout the entire production process. From mashing the malt to the final fermentation and lagering: acidity affects enzyme activity, protein breakdown, extract yield, yeast performance and ultimately the flavour balance of the end product. In the production of wine, cider, gin and other distilled drinks, pH also plays an essential role in fermentation, microbiological stability and flavour development.

Why is pH important in brewing?

The pH value indicates how acidic or alkaline a liquid is, on a scale of 0 to 14. During the brewing process, the pH changes constantly. The optimal pH during mashing is between 5.2 and 5.6, while the pH after fermentation usually drops to 4.0 to 4.5. In winemaking, a pH between 3.0 and 3.8 is often the aim, while in gin production the pH of the mash and the added water must be monitored carefully.

Consequences of an incorrect pH measurement

• Reduced extract yield: an incorrect mash pH lowers the activity of enzymes that convert starch into fermentable sugars.
• Off-flavours and haze: deviating pH values can lead to excessive extraction of tannins or insufficient protein breakdown.
• Yeast stress and stuck fermentation: a pH that is too low or too high inhibits the yeast, so that fermentation is incomplete.
• Microbiological instability: a pH that is too high increases the risk of contamination by wild yeasts or bacteria.
• Deviating colour and oxidation: pH affects Maillard reactions and the stability of colour and aroma compounds.

That is why accurate and regular pH control is indispensable in every brewery, vineyard or distillery.

How do you measure pH during the brewing process?

• Portable pH meter (handheld): a portable pH meter is ideal for quick checks of mash, wort, fermenting beer or must. The meter gives a digital value immediately and is easy to calibrate.
• pH measuring and control system (pH probe): a fixed system is permanently installed in pipes, tanks or reactors. The pH probe measures continuously and can automatically adjust or trigger an alarm if necessary.

In both systems, the pH probe is the sensitive and most critical component. A high-quality electrode, correctly calibrated and maintained, determines the accuracy and reproducibility of your measurements.

Meytec pH probes and buffer solutions for brewing

Meytec supplies high-quality solutions for both types of measuring system: universally compatible pH probes with BNC connector, portable pH meters and all the pH buffer solutions and maintenance solutions you need.

pH buffer solutions for breweries

A pH probe must be calibrated regularly to remain accurate. Use only calibration solutions of known pH values for this, such as pH 4 buffer solution, pH 7 buffer solution and pH 10 buffer solution. Meytec supplies these solutions in 20 ml, 60 ml and 250 ml, depending on your application and consumption. If you calibrate at pH 7 and pH 10, both are in the set pH 7 and pH 10 buffer solution sachet 20 ml. Calibrate at least weekly, or more often with intensive use or when deviating values are suspected.

With good maintenance and the right Meytec solutions, your pH probe lasts longer and your measuring system stays reliable.

Replacing a brewery pH probe