(Image source from: Canva.com)

Have you ever wondered why beer bottles are usually brown or green? These colors are not chosen randomly or for marketing reasons. Rather, it plays an important role in protecting beer from sunlight and preserving its taste and freshness. According to the report, beer has been packaged in glass bottles since the 19th century because glass is an excellent material for keeping things fresh. However, brewers soon realized that ordinary glass bottles were not suitable for storing beer. Beer in transparent bottles loses its taste when exposed to sunlight and develops an unpleasant smell. This phenomenon, known as “photosensitivity,” occurs when ultraviolet (UV) light passes through the glass and reacts with the beer's ingredients, particularly the hops. Hops contain isohomone, which can release odorous substances when exposed to ultraviolet light. Brown bottles are reportedly the most effective at protecting beer from UV rays and preventing chemical reactions that can affect its taste. The light protection protects the sensitive ingredients of your beer and ensures that the taste remains pure. Brown bottles were widely used as breweries sought to combat the negative effects of light on their products. Brown bottles are still the most common choice in the beer industry today.

During World War II, breweries used green bottles due to the shortage of brown glass. Consumers associate green bottles with premium beer. However, green bottles do not offer as much UV protection as brown bottles. This means that beer stored in green glass is more sensitive to light. However, many breweries still use green bottles for branding and tradition reasons. Clear bottles allow the consumer to see the beer inside but do not provide UV protection. This makes beer stored in regular glass jars susceptible to light damage. To address this issue, some manufacturers are now using UV protective coatings on clear bottles to offset the risk while ensuring visibility. Cans are very popular because they offer 100% UV protection, ensuring your beer stays fresh without being affected by sunlight. Plus, the cans cool quickly, making them practical for outdoor events.