With technology and strict quality control, Ambev shares the science that ensures excellence in beers like Brahma.
The soul of a perfect beer begins long before the first toast. From barley to glass, the journey involves science, technology and meticulous attention to detail. Ambev, leader of a sector representing 2% of Brazil’s GDP, opens its operations to reveal fascinating details behind every pint.
From the field to the malthouse
It all starts in the fields, where Ambev works with local farmers to grow the best barley varieties. In the malthouse, the grain becomes malt — the base of every beer. From there, a rigorous quality process takes over, ensuring consistency and excellence.
Tests and quality checkpoints
Upon arrival, the malt undergoes the “tea test” — a sensory infusion tasting that checks aroma and flavor. Then, powerful magnets and metal detectors ensure total purity before the brewing stage.
Throughout production, Ambev uses “quality turnstiles” known as Release Control Items (ICLs). These checkpoints act like gates that only open when each stage meets the required parameters, guaranteeing perfection from start to finish.
Ferment check-up and final beer exam
The yeast, considered the heart of brewing, passes through microbiological, physicochemical and sensory labs. Only after receiving a full “health check” — including pH, vitality and viability tests — can it begin fermentation. Before bottling, the beer undergoes a “final exam” to assess foam, carbonation, brightness and color accuracy.
The carbon dioxide used to protect the beer is naturally captured from fermentation, purified to 99.99% and reincorporated into the process. Oxygen levels are measured in parts per billion (ppb), preserving freshness for up to six months.
Global standards and worldwide recognition
Brands such as Budweiser and Corona maintain identical flavors around the world. Samples brewed in Brazil are sent abroad for blind tests with global “key tasters,” ensuring flavor calibration across continents.
“Our yeast goes through a real check-up before entering the tanks, and the beer is tasted 16 times before reaching consumers. This dedication has earned us over 1,300 medals in global festivals over the past seven years,” says Alexandre Esber, brewmaster at Ambev and professor at Academia da Cerveja.
A toast beyond the glass
Ambev’s passion for brewing with high-quality natural ingredients also reflects its commitment to Brazil. The company has invested over R$ 10 billion in the past three years, strengthening the entire production chain. This blend of tradition and innovation sustains a diverse portfolio and supports an industry that generates over 2 million jobs nationwide.
