A revolutionary new beer has hit the market in Germany, made from an unexpected ingredient: recycled wastewater. Reuse Brew, a classic German lager, is the result of a collaboration between the city of Weissenburg, American water tech company Xylem, and the Technical University of Munich (TUM).
While the idea of drinking beer made from sewage may seem unappealing, Xylem ensures that the water is thoroughly cleaned and purified before being used in the brewing process. The wastewater undergoes a rigorous treatment process, including ozone injection, UV radiation, and hydrogen peroxide pellets, before being filtered through various carbon and nano filters. This process removes 99.999% of all chemicals and contaminants, resulting in clean, fresh water.
The Reuse Brew is a Bavarian Helles, a traditional German pale lager beer, with a pleasant freshness and subtle bitter note. But it's not just a drink; it's a conversation starter, sparking discussions about water conservation, resource efficiency, and sustainable brewing practices.
Turning wastewater into tap water is not a new concept. NASA astronauts have been doing it for years, and California has even approved standards for turning sewage into drinking water. However, the "yuck" factor of "toilet-to-tap" has prevented widespread adoption of wastewater recycling.
Professor Jörg E. Drewes of TUM emphasizes that the source of water should not determine its value, but rather its safety and quality. With demand for water higher than ever and climate change disrupting supply, recycling wastewater may become the norm in the future.
If you're curious to try Reuse Brew, Xylem will be serving it at the upcoming IFAT event in Munich from May 13 to 17. Cheers to a sustainable future!
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