Why Breweries Are Turning to N2 Generators for Beer and Coffee

Nitrogen gas is quickly becoming an essential component of the beer and coffee industries. For both of these beverages, nitrogen replaces oxygen to preserve flavor and color. Nitrogen also preserves carbonation which ensures a high-quality product for consumers.

While some industry professionals started off using nitrogen in cylinders or in other deliverable states, the gradual shift toward nitrogen generation has been underway for a long time.

Although nitrogen cylinders can meet beverage industry needs under certain circumstances, the benefits of an N2 generator are clear. Nitrogen generators are cost-effective, long-lasting, easy to maintain, and they take up far less storage space. If you represent a business in the food and beverage industry and are seeking ways that you can reduce your costs, a nitrogen generator can deliver results.

The Role of Nitrogen in Beer Production

Nitrogen is used in nitrogenated beers (like stouts) to create a smooth texture and creamy mouthfeel. Nitrogen also creates a longer-lasting head. Nitrogen helps preserve the color and flavor of the beer by replacing oxygen and preventing oxidation.

Centuries ago, before there was forced carbonation, beer was brewed in wooden casks that would not hold much carbonation. Beers were lightly carbonated and then stored in basements. Pub workers would use “beer engines” to pressurize the casks with air (which is mostly nitrogen) to deliver beer to the taps upstairs.

What does this mean? Nitrogen carbonation is almost a tradition in beer brewing as it has been used for years to give beer its delightful texture and creamy head. Its use today is simply carrying on a tradition!

The Role of Nitrogen in Coffee Production

Nitrogen has been used in coffee packaging for decades. Nitrogen replaces oxygen in the package to preserve the flavor and color of the beans. This allows coffee beans to be transported all over the world without losing their flavor and freshness.

Recently, nitrogen has been used in coffee production to enhance the flavor and texture of the coffee. Nitrogen is infused in cold-brew coffees to produce a creamy texture and natural sweetness. This produces a naturally less bitter coffee that attracts many consumers.

Advantages of On-Site Nitrogen Generation for Breweries

Cost Savings

N2 nitrogen generators reduce your business reliance on bulk gas deliveries and associated expenses. While nitrogen generators are associated with a large up-front cost, the overall cost for nitrogen is much lower when using a generator. Gas deliveries can get expensive, especially over multiple years with delivery fees, cylinder rental, and other fees. If your production increases, so do your gas expenses. Using an N2 generator can help control your costs, even as demand for your product goes up.

Consistent Quality

Nitrogen generators can produce nitrogen gas all the time, all year round. This helps ensure a stable and continuous nitrogen supply for optimal beer and coffee production.

Increased Efficiency

On-demand nitrogen generation reduces downtime and enhances production flexibility. This allows for scalable production of your product, and can help your business grow.

Safety Benefits

Nitrogen cylinders contain nitrogen under high pressure. Anyone who is handling a nitrogen cylinder must be properly trained to ensure safety and prevent accidents. Nitrogen generators produce nitrogen under lower pressure, and thus have fewer safety risks.

Reduced hassle

Managing bulk nitrogen deliveries can be a hassle. Storing cylinders requires careful handling, and delays from supply chain issues can leave you waiting. On top of that, rising costs and endless contract administration with suppliers only add to the frustration. If you purchase a nitrogen generator, your business can avoid all of these hassles and more.

Environmental and Sustainability Benefits

There are many environmental benefits from using an on site nitrogen generator for your nitrogen generation needs. Using a generator reduces your carbon footprint by eliminating gas transportation. This can contribute to sustainability goals by minimizing waste and energy consumption. If your business has sustainability goals, an N2 generator can help you meet them.

Contact On Site Gas Systems for an N2 Generator

It’s clear why businesses turn to gas generators for their n2 generation needs! Nitrogen generators operate at a lower cost than cylinders, and nitrogen generators are far more environmentally friendly. Using a nitrogen generator is efficient and involves less hassle.

Is your beverage business in need of an efficient and low-cost source of nitrogen? On Site Gas Systems creates nitrogen generation solutions for beverage industry operations.Contact us today to make an appointment and learn more about our nitrogen generation services.