Beer Quality: Foam from Coursera

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Syllabus

Getting Started & Perceptions and Physics of Foam

In this module, we’ll introduce you the overall idea of beer quality, focusing specifically on the foam of beer. We'll discuss how foam appearance impacts someone’s perception of a beer’s flavor and overall quality. We’ll also take a look at what the research tells us about beer foam preferences from various countries around the world. We'll discuss the physical parameters that impact foam and methods for producing more bubbles. We'll also discuss the physics of bubbles and factors that affect their size and stability.

Chemistry and Measuring of Foam

In this module, we'll begin by talking about foam positive and foam negative materials, and the various chemical species that influence foam stability. We will discuss the affect that hydrophilic (water loving) and hydrophobic (water hating) chemicals have on the stability of foam. We also review some of the research that has been done in this area to give you a more nuanced view of this subject. We will also look at the results of various research projects that compare the foaming properties of albumins and hordeins. Also in this module, we'll review methods and tools available for measuring the stability of foam and for measuring foam lacing. Finally, Joseph Williams will walk you through a number of foam measuring techniques at the UC Davis brewing and food science laboratory.

Process Impacts on Foam and Interpreting Foam Problems

In this module, we'll discuss how the raw materials chosen for brewing can affect foam. We will discuss various factors of beer production that affect foam including sweet wort production, boiling, and hops and hop products. We'll also discuss the impacts that yeast, filtration, stabilization, packaging, and dispensing have on foam. We'll discuss common foam problems that occur during the dispensing and serving of beer, including proper glass cleanliness. We also discuss ways of testing for foam positive and negative materials in the beer. We'll discuss common reasons foam positives are lacking in beer and reasons foam negative materials are present in beer.

Gushing and Troubleshooting Foam Scenarios

In this module, we'll discuss the problem of gushing and it's causes. We'll also discuss methods of testing for gushing and preventing gushing. I will also provide some final thoughts on delighting your customers with beautiful foam. We'll finish the course with applying your knowledge through a scenario based quizzes.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for brewers of all skill levels, from novice to expert

Provides a comprehensive overview of beer foam, including its impact on quality

Taught by Charlie Bamforth, a renowned expert on beer foam

Offers practical guidance on how to achieve the perfect foam

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Beer Quality: Foam with these activities:

Review Physics

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Review the basics of physics to strengthen your understanding of the physical properties of foam.

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Revisit the concepts of force, motion, and energy.
Review the principles of fluid mechanics and surface tension.
Familiarize yourself with the factors that influence bubble formation and stability.

Foam Analysis Discussion

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Participate in discussions with peers to share knowledge, compare foam analysis results, and collectively identify areas for improvement.

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Present your foam measurement data and observations to the group.
Discuss the potential factors influencing the observed foam characteristics.
Brainstorm and evaluate strategies for optimizing foam quality based on the group's collective knowledge.

Brew a batch of beer with a focus on foam quality

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This project will allow you to apply the principles of foam science learned in the course to a practical brewing scenario.

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Gather the necessary ingredients and equipment
Follow the brewing instructions carefully, paying particular attention to the steps that affect foam quality
Monitor the fermentation process and make any necessary adjustments
Package the beer and allow it to condition
Evaluate the foam quality of the finished beer

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Foam Measurement Techniques

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Engage with tutorials that demonstrate various techniques used to measure foam characteristics, enhancing your ability to evaluate foam quality objectively.

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Explore different methods for measuring foam height and volume.
Learn about techniques to assess foam stability, such as the Ross-Miles test.
Practice using these techniques to analyze foam samples.

Foam Stability Evaluations

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Conduct a series of experiments to investigate the stability of different foam samples, reinforcing your understanding of the factors that affect foam longevity.

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Prepare foam samples with varying compositions and conditions.
Measure and record the foam stability over time using appropriate techniques.
Analyze the data to identify the key factors that contribute to foam stability.

Foam Troubleshooting Guide

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Create a comprehensive guide that outlines common foam problems, their potential causes, and effective solutions, empowering you to address foam quality issues in practical settings.

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Identify and describe various foam defects, such as poor head retention and lacing.
Research and analyze the underlying causes of these defects, considering factors related to raw materials, brewing processes, and dispensing practices.
Develop and document practical solutions for each problem, supported by scientific evidence and industry best practices.

Foam Optimization Plan

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Develop a comprehensive plan that outlines specific actions and strategies for optimizing foam quality in your brewing or beverage production operations.

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Conduct a detailed assessment of the current foam quality issues.
Identify potential solutions and develop a step-by-step plan for implementing them.
Establish metrics for measuring the effectiveness of the optimization efforts.
Present the plan to stakeholders and secure their support for implementation.

Career center

Learners who complete Beer Quality: Foam will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Brewmaster

Brewmasters are responsible for overseeing all aspects of beer production, from recipe development to quality control. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the scientific knowledge and practical skills you need to excel in this role. You will learn about the chemistry of foam, how to measure and assess foam stability, and how to troubleshoot foam problems. This course will help you develop the expertise needed to produce beers with consistent, high-quality foam.

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Quality Control Manager

Quality Control Managers are responsible for ensuring that products meet quality standards. In the brewing industry, this means ensuring that beer meets the desired flavor, aroma, and appearance. This Beer Quality: Foam Course will give you the knowledge and skills you need to evaluate beer quality, identify and resolve foam problems. With this expertise, you will be well-equipped to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Control Manager

Brewer

Brewers are responsible for producing beer according to a specific recipe. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to brew high-quality beer. You will learn about the brewing process, the chemistry of foam, and how to troubleshoot foam problems. This course will equip you with the confidence and expertise to excel as a Brewer.

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Sensory Analyst

Sensory Analysts evaluate the sensory properties of products, including food and beverages. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will help you develop the skills needed to evaluate the foam of beer, identify foam problems, and communicate your findings effectively. With this expertise, you can succeed in a career as a Sensory Analyst in the brewing industry.

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Product Development Scientist

Product Development Scientists develop new products or improve existing ones. In the brewing industry, this role may involve developing new beer recipes or improving the quality of existing beers. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the chemistry of foam and how to troubleshoot foam problems. This expertise will be invaluable in developing and improving beer products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Development Scientist

Food Scientist

Food Scientists apply scientific principles to the development, production, and preservation of food. In the brewing industry, Food Scientists may work on developing new beer products, improving the quality of existing beers, or ensuring the safety of beer products. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the chemistry of foam and how to troubleshoot foam problems. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Food Scientist in the brewing industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Food Scientist

Chemist

Chemists study the composition, structure, and properties of matter. In the brewing industry, Chemists may work on developing new beer products, improving the quality of existing beers, or ensuring the safety of beer products. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the chemistry of foam and how to troubleshoot foam problems. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Chemist in the brewing industry.

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Microbiologist

Microbiologists study microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In the brewing industry, Microbiologists may work on ensuring the safety of beer products or developing new fermentation techniques. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the role of microorganisms in beer production and how to troubleshoot foam problems. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Microbiologist in the brewing industry.

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Packaging Engineer

Packaging Engineers design and develop packaging for products. In the brewing industry, Packaging Engineers may work on developing new packaging for beer products or improving the quality of existing packaging. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the role of packaging in beer quality and how to troubleshoot foam problems. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Packaging Engineer in the brewing industry.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products and services. In the brewing industry, Marketing Managers may work on promoting beer products to consumers. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the importance of foam quality in beer marketing. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Marketing Manager in the brewing industry.

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Sales Representative

Sales Representatives sell products and services to customers. In the brewing industry, Sales Representatives may work on selling beer products to retailers or consumers. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the importance of foam quality in beer sales. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Sales Representative in the brewing industry.

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Bartender

Bartenders serve alcoholic beverages to customers in bars and restaurants. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the importance of foam quality in beer service. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Bartender in the brewing industry.

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Beer Judge

Beer Judges evaluate the quality of beer at beer competitions. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the importance of foam quality in beer judging. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Beer Judge in the brewing industry.

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Beer Sommelier

Beer Sommeliers are experts in beer and can recommend beers to customers based on their preferences. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the importance of foam quality in beer appreciation. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Beer Sommelier in the brewing industry.

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Beer Writer

Beer Writers write about beer for magazines, newspapers, and websites. This course on Beer Quality: Foam will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to understand the importance of foam quality in beer writing. This expertise will be valuable in a career as a Beer Writer in the brewing industry.

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