Phd in MANAGEMENT, BANKING AND COMMODITY SCIENCES

Thesis title: Caratterizzazione Merceologica della Birra Artigianale e Valorizzazione dei Sottoprodotti mediante l’Analisi dei Composti Bioattivi

Beer, a symbol of millennia-old tradition and technological innovation, is today one of the most appreciated and versatile beverages in the world. This thesis offers an in-depth commodity analysis of the product, with a focus on the chemical composition of raw materials and the evolution of production processes. The analysis extends to the Italian market, where the demand for craft beers, characterized by authenticity and sustainability, is rapidly growing. This trend pushes producers to combine quality and innovation to meet new consumer demands. From an experimental perspective, the research focuses on the characterization of bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols, using advanced analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and spectrophotometric assays. Polyphenols, known for their antioxidant properties, play a crucial role in determining the organoleptic quality, stability, and health potential of beer. The comparative analysis of different beer styles highlighted significant differences in the concentration of these bioactive compounds, contributing to a better understanding of their impact on the final product. Another key contribution of the thesis concerns the valorization of brewing by-products, particularly spent grains, which are rich in fiber, protein, and polyphenols. The research explores new opportunities for the reuse of spent grains in the food industry, promoting a model of circular and sustainable economy that helps reduce waste and create innovative products.