New Beer

October 11, 2005

Herbal beer set to launch in India

A herbal beer developed by an Indian research institute will finally

reach the market in 2006, claims the researcher, after several delays

to its launch.

By Hridyesh Pandey

Kanpur-based ANJS exports Ltd gained rights to the technology in 2002

from India's National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI).

But the product, known as Nebri and made from medicinal herbs and raw

Dussehri mango extracts, has not yet been made available to

consumers.

Dr P. Pushpangadan, director of NBRI, explained that “it took time

for ANJS to set up the factory and the machines that will be needed

to produce the beer."

"Their herbal beer unit at Unnao ran into rough weather after the

proposed factory site area was declared agricultural land," he added.

The new ANJS factory is planning to produce 1,000 litres of beer

everyday.

The beer has an optional alcohol content of 2 per cent with the

quintessential tangy and carbonated fizz of the commercial beer. It

is also easily digestible, liver protective and immuno-enhancing,

according to the developer, as it contains antioxidants and compounds

to strengthen the immune system.

“The beer is devoid of industrial alcohol and glycerine. It contains

self-generated alcohol produced by fermentation of mango and

medicinal herbs with yeast," explained Dr Rawat, head of the project.

Tests for fizz, taste and colour were conducted among 500 people to

finally get the right mix. The herbal beer will have the same taste

and colour as other beers, and also has foam similar to other beers,

he said.

The trend for herbal or fruit extracts in the brewing industry is

growing. Recently, the international brewer Anheuser-Busch has

released a number of fruit-infused beers in test markets in the US,

with flavours such as orange grapefruit, lime and cactus and

pomegranate raspberry.

There are victories of the soul and spirit. Sometimes, even if you lose, you win.

- Elie Wiesel

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