Free ABV testing by GC for breweries considering in-house analysis

Brewers producing alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks often face a simple challenge: measuring alcohol accurately at very low levels. When products sit close to the 0.5% ABV threshold, small differences in measurement can matter for labelling, compliance, and batch consistency.

To help breweries see how gas chromatography (GC) can improve alcohol measurement, UK instrument manufacturer Ellutia is offering a limited number of free GC-based ABV tests.

The offer is simple. Brewers send a sample of their product, Ellutia measures the exact alcohol content using GC, and the results are shared with the brewery. There is no charge and no obligation.

While several techniques exist for alcohol measurement, methods such as density meters, infrared systems, or enzymatic kits can become less reliable when working close to alcohol-free limits. Gas chromatography separates and measures ethanol directly, allowing brewers to determine the true alcohol level in their product with high sensitivity.

Ellutia has recently been working with a number of breweries and drinks producers who are exploring alcohol-free and low-alcohol products. In many cases, the goal is not just measurement, but confidence — confirming that products remain comfortably below legal thresholds and consistent between batches.

The free testing programme gives breweries a chance to see how GC analysis works in practice using their own products.

Breweries that take part will receive a clear ABV result from the GC analysis. If the results prove useful, participants can also attend one of Ellutia’s hands-on brewing workshops, where brewers can see the technology in operation and run samples themselves.

Ellutia will arrange sample collection, making the process straightforward for participating breweries.

The programme is limited to the first 25 breweries to apply.

Brewers interested in taking part can learn more or request a test from Ellutia.

More information online