THE BEERTENDER GUIDE

SERVING DRAUGHT

A "beer clean" glass is the best way to serve beer. Cups may offer convenience, but often consumers can detect the aroma of plastic. Glass is non-porous and can be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.

Some glasses may look clean but may contain an invisible layer of film, odor or bacteria.

Film can be caused by several factors, such as the use of incorrect sanitizers or soaps, grease-based residues from lipstick, food in the wash water, fingerprints or smoke from cigarettes or the kitchen.

Odors may be left on glasses when certain sanitizers are used improperly, or from contact with bar towels, stale air or refrigerated environments.

Bacteria can contaminate your glassware if your sanitizer is measured incorrectly, if it is incompatible with the detergent you use, or if the sanitizer is not changed at recommended intervals.

As a result of these problems, the beer you serve can be "flat," produce a "false" head or have an "off" taste.

Caused by film or grease residues that actually attack the foam on a head of beer. As a result, the head rapidly disappears, releasing carbonation and causing the beer to look and taste "flat." In turn, bartenders may then fill the glass almost to the top, reducing the number of servings … and reducing your profits.

Caused by film, soap or grease on glasses. As a result, the head forms from overly large bubbles that quickly dissappear.
Once again, a false head usually results in the bartender refilling the glass to the top.

Occurs because of the close relationship between taste and smell. A glass with an odor can actually give the beer an "off" taste. As a result, you may lose customers, who often take their business elsewhere rather than inform you of the problem.