Filtration of beer & spirits


Hops for beer brewing

Filtration of beer and spirits – Efficient and food-approved filtration for breweries.

At Nordic Filtration, we specialize in advanced filtration solutions for the food industry – including breweries and distilleries.

Filtration is a critical part of both beer brewing and spirits production, where the demands for purity, taste, shelf life and safety are sky-high.

Whether you work with microbrewery, larger commercial production, whiskey, vodka or gin, we offer tailor-made solutions that ensure optimal product quality and compliance with food standards.

In our range you will find filters from 3M, Donaldson & Cobetter that are particularly suitable for filtering beer and spirits.


Brewery

Why is filtration important in breweries and distilleries?

Filtration removes unwanted particles, microorganisms, yeast residues and turbidity, which can affect both taste, appearance and shelf life. At the same time, proper filtration contributes to a more consistent product quality and reduces the risk of contamination and rejected batches.

Typical purposes of filtration:

    • Remove yeast and protein residues after fermentation
    • Clear beers to achieve a bright and attractive appearance
    • Microbiological stabilization without the use of heat (cold sterile filtration)
    • Protect equipment from clogging
    • Extend shelf life without compromising taste and aroma


Filtration process in brewery

The filtration process in a brewery

In the brewing industry, filtration typically takes place in several stages:

Coarse filtration
After wort boiling and whirlpool, coarse filtration is used to remove hop residues and larger particles. Filter bags or metal filters with a filtration rate of 50–100 microns are typically used here.

Fine filtration (clarification filtration)
Once the beer has fermented, yeast residues and proteins are removed. This is typically done with depth filters or plate filters that can filter down to 1–5 microns.

Sterile filtration
Finally, a sterile filter cartridge (0.45 or 0.2 microns) is often used to remove bacteria and ensure microbiological stability, especially when cold filtering without pasteurization.


Filtration process in distillery

The filtration process in a distillery

In distilleries, the filtration requirements are different but equally important. Here, it is typically about clarity, color adjustment, and removing impurities without affecting aroma.

Post-distillation – particle and carbon filtration
Spirits often contain fine impurities, which are removed by activated carbon filters or depth filters. These filters also help to tint or clarify the spirit.

Polishing filtration
A fine cartridge filter (1–5 microns) is used to give the product a crystal clear finish before bottling.

Chill filtration
Chill filtration can precipitate certain fatty acids and oils. Here, cold filtration, often with membrane filters, is used to ensure that the product remains clear at low temperatures.


Cartridge filtration

What filters are typically used for beer and spirits?

Nordic Filtration offers a wide range of filters and filter housings adapted to the brewing and distilling industry:

Filter bags
For coarse filtration and particle collection

Depth filters (melt-blown)
For efficient removal of fine particles

Lenticular filters
Classic method in beer production for clarification

Cartridge filters (membrane and depth)
For sterile filtration and polishing

Activated carbon filters
For taste and color control in spirits


Food-approved filter housings

Food-approved filter housings – What to look out for?

When working with food, there are strict requirements for materials and construction:

Material selection:
Filter housings must typically be made of stainless steel AISI 316 or 304, which is resistant to both acids and cleaning chemicals.

Approvals:
Filters and filter housings must be FDA and EU 1935/2004 approved for contact with food.

CIP compatibility:
The equipment must be able to be cleaned via Clean-In-Place (CIP) systems to ensure optimal hygiene.

Hygienic design:
Smooth surfaces and welds without cracks are important to prevent bacterial growth.


FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which filter should I use to clarify beer?
A depth filter of 1–5 microns is typically ideal for clarification. For sterile filtration, a 0.45 or 0.2 micron membrane filter is recommended.

Is it necessary to filter spirits?
Yes - filtration removes unwanted by-products, improves appearance and can adjust the flavor profile without changing the alcohol percentage.

Can you supply complete filtration systems?
Yes, at Nordic Filtration we supply both individual components and complete solutions, including filter housings, cartridges, bags and CIP-friendly systems for both small and large producers.

What standards must be met?
All products for food use must at least comply with the FDA and the EU Food Contact Regulation.


Tailored Solutions for Breweries and Distilleries

We know that needs vary depending on product type, batch size and hygiene requirements. That’s why we offer tailor-made solutions that fit your production needs.

Contact us today for a no-obligation chat about how we can help optimize your filtration process – with a focus on quality, efficiency and compliance with standards.