New research predicts the yield of already high-demand aroma hops to drop between 4% and 18% by 2050. This is important for the beer industry because the ever-popular India Pale Ales (IPAs) and their related off-shoots depend on aroma hops for their unique scents and bitter taste. AdvertisementAdvertisementHowever, the high-quality hops needed for IPAs to achieve their desired bitterness and aromas are already more expensive, so these beers are typically more costly than traditional styles. As the climate changes, areas that were once home to hops production become less hospitable, but new areas could open up. The authors concluded by calling on "urgent adaptation measures to stabilize international market chains," noting that these changes "will affect the economics and prospects" for European hop production.

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Persons: Untappd, Nicolas Jooris Organizations: Service, Change Research, Czech Academy of Sciences, Getty, Farmers Locations: Europe, India, microbreweries, Germany, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Yakima Valley, Washington, East Coast