What is Skunked Beer & How to Prevent It During Shipping

Published Date: 15 June 2024

If you’ve ever cracked open a beer and noticed an unpleasant, skunky smell, you know how disappointing it can be.

For craft breweries, skunked beer is more than just a minor inconvenience—it can seriously impact customer satisfaction and brand reputation. But what exactly is skunked beer, and how can you prevent it from happening during shipping?

As the demand for craft beer grows, so does the pressure on breweries to deliver high-quality products that meet consumer expectations. A critical aspect of maintaining good beer quality is preserving its flavor and aroma, which can be significantly impacted by improper handling and shipping.

While skunking can occur at various stages of the brewing process, the shipping phase is particularly vulnerable due to factors like light exposure and temperature fluctuations. This article will talk about the causes of skunk beer and provide essential tips for preventing it during shipping.

What is Skunked Beer?

Skunked beer, or light-struck beer, is a term used to describe beer that has developed an unpleasant, skunk-like odor and flavor.

The culprit behind skunk beer is a chemical reaction triggered by light exposure. Hops, a key ingredient in beer, contain alpha acids that are sensitive to light. When exposed to UV rays, these acids react with the riboflavin (vitamin B2) present in normal beer, creating a sulfur-containing compound called 3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol (MBT). This compound is similar to those found in a skunk’s spray, hence the name.

The skunking process can happen quickly—just a few minutes of direct sunlight exposure or even artificial light can be enough to spoil the beer. Skunky beer loses its intended flavor profile, which can be devastating for craft brewers who pride themselves on the quality and consistency of their products. Understanding what causes skunked beer is the first step in preventing it, particularly during storage and shipping.

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How Does Beer Get Skunked During Shipping?

The journey from brewery to consumer is fraught with potential pitfalls that can impact beer quality. Understanding these challenges is essential for protecting your product.

The shipping process itself presents multiple opportunities for beer to encounter unfavorable conditions. From loading at the brewery to unloading at the final destination, beer is exposed to varying levels of light and temperature. Even short periods of exposure can cause skunked beer.

Temperature fluctuations are another significant factor. Beer is sensitive to heat, and prolonged exposure can accelerate aging and lead to off-flavors, including skunky notes. Conversely, extreme cold can also negatively impact beer quality, causing haze or altering the flavor profile.

Packaging plays a crucial role in preventing skunky beer during shipping. Brown bottles offer some protection, but clear or green bottles are especially susceptible to this issue. High-quality packaging materials, such as insulated containers and thermal blankets, can also help mitigate temperature changes.

Preventing Skunked Beer During Shipping

To ensure your beer arrives at its destination tasting as fresh as the day it was brewed, careful attention must be paid to the shipping process. Here are some essential tips to prevent skunked beer during shipping:

Beer Packaging & Handling

Proper packaging is the first line of defense against skunked beer. Here are some packaging factors you should consider:

Bottled Beer or Cans: Use brown bottles or cans to block UV light. While clear glass bottles or green glass bottles might look aesthetically pleasing, the risk of beer exposed to UV rays is higher.
Choose The Right Box: Opt for sturdy, double-walled boxes designed for shipping.
Protective Packaging: Wrap bottled beer in protective packaging to minimize direct sunlight during transit. Fill empty spaces with void-fill materials like bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or crumpled paper. This prevents glass bottles or cans from shifting and colliding during transit.
Secure Your Shipment: Use plenty of packing tape to seal the box securely. Consider adding extra reinforcement with strapping or shrink wrap for added protection.
Label Clearly: Clearly label the box with “Fragile” and “Handle with Care” to alert shipping carriers to the delicate contents.

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Temperature Control

Beer is a delicate beverage that can be easily affected by temperature fluctuations. Follow these tips to avoid the dreaded skunky beer smell and taste.

Store and ship beer at temperatures between 45°F and 55°F.
Avoid temperature fluctuations that can accelerate skunking.
Use refrigerated trucks or coolers during transit.

Specialized Shipping Experts

Not all shipping companies have the expertise to handle beer with the care it deserves. Partnering with a brewery managed logistics provider like Brew Movers ensures your product is in good hands from point A to point B. Here are some tips for choosing a 3PL provider:

Choose a 3PL provider experienced in beverage logistics.
Opt for shipping services that understand the specific needs of craft beer.
Work with partners who offer real-time tracking and handling assurance.

The Importance of Specialized Beer Shipping & Logistics

While proper packaging and handling are key components of a successful supply chain, partnering with specialized logistics providers like Brew Movers can make a significant difference in protecting your beer during transit.

Our team possesses in-depth knowledge of the unique challenges faced by the beverage industry, allowing us to develop tailored solutions that safeguard your product from turning into skunked beer.

We understand the importance of maintaining consistent temperatures, minimizing light exposure, and ensuring timely delivery. Our expertise in handling fragile cargo and our network of trusted carriers guarantee your beer arrives at its destination in pristine condition. By choosing Brew Movers, you’re not just selecting a shipping service; you’re investing in your brand and the satisfaction of your customers.