What does over modification in the brewing process refer to?

Over modification in the brewing process refers specifically to the issue that arises when the germination of barley or other grains is allowed to continue for too long, resulting in the grains being excessively modified. In this context, "modification" refers to the biochemical changes that occur during malting, where enzymes break down starches and proteins to prepare the grain for brewing.

When germination is prolonged, the enzymatic activity can lead to an undesirable balance between fermentable sugars and the structural integrity of proteins and β-glucans. This can negatively affect the brewing process, leading to issues such as poor filterability during wort production and potentially off-flavors in the final beer product. Proper control of the germination phase is crucial, as it ensures that the grains achieve the right level of conversion without becoming over-modified, which can ultimately impact brewing efficiency and beer quality.

Hence, it is important for brewers to monitor the malting process closely to avoid the pitfalls associated with over modification, ensuring optimal enzyme development for effective brewing.