Cleaning vs Sanitizing vs Disinfecting vs Sterlizing

Sanitize, Sanitize and ...... Sanitize!

This is probably the most boring step in the whole brewing process. But still, almost every home-brewer recommends this as one of the most important steps.

But why though?

Why is this process so important?

Let's get into it.

Cleaning vs Sanitization vs Disinfection vs Sterlizing

Before we get into "Why Sanitization is important?", let us understand, What exactly is Sanitization?

The are 4 major processes involved in decontaminating any surface:

Cleaning

Cleaning is the process of removing visible dirt and dust from any surface. While this is effective, it can still leave traces of microorganisms and bacteria.

This can be done with clean cloth or simply washing with Water and Soap.

Sanitizing

Sanitization is one step better than simple cleaning. While, it does not completely kill all the bacteria, it reduces the amount of pathogens and bacteria as prescribed by health standards.

This can be done by heating the vessels/solutions above 65-70C, or using Chemical Sanitizers. Many food grade sanitizers are available in the market, which are harmless if consumed (till a certain extent, of course)

Disinfecting

Disinfection is even stronger than sanitization. It kills almost all of the harmful pathogens on the surface. It is achieved by using stronger chemicals like bleach or hydrogen peroxide.

While it is more effective than Sanitization, it may still leave some microorganisms like spores or certain fungi.

Sterlizing

Sterlization is absolute cleanliness! It kills off all forms of microbial life, like Fungi, bacteria, viruses, spores. This is the highest level of decontamination, generally used in hospitals. It is carried out by some specialty chemicals or even radiation.

What should be done for Brewing?

Although Sterlizing then equipment ensures absolutely no contaminants, it can be harmful if the chemicals are not handled properly. Extra care needs to be taken when we are dealing with kitchen equipments, as we'll be consuming the things prepared in them.

Sanitization is usually sufficient for brewing purposes as it reduces the microorganisms below the threshold, as prescribed by the health standards. The chemicals and their prescribed dilution is safe, even if consumed. It is also much simple and cost effective to Sanitize the equipments, rather than doing a full-blown sterlization.

How to Sanitize?

Anything and everything that comes in contact with our brew needs to be sanitized. This includes the fermenter, airlock, spoons etc.

For smaller equipments like spoons, we can dump them in the prepared sanitizer solution and leave them for a couple of minutes.

For big items like the fermenter itself, we can pour some amount of the solution in the fermenter, and shake it well so that the solution reaches every single corner of the fermenter.

Alternatively, you can take a clean cloth and use it to rub the solution around.

What if I do not sanitize?

They say, 'High Risk - High Reward', but some risks are just not worth the rewards.

In brewing, we use yeast for fermentation. If any other wild microorganisms are present in the brew, they can introduce off-flavours in our brew, which can completely spoil our batch.

The reward is nothing but the reduced effort of going through the boring process of sanitizing every single thing, but the risk of avoiding this is completely spoiling our batch and months of effort!

Sounds one-sided, doesn't it?

There are many No-rinse food grade sanitizers like Iodophore Sanitizers present in the market, which are ideal for home brewers!

Next time when you're starting a batch, do not miss this step, so that you can enjoy your Mead without worrying about those tiny organisms spoiling your brew!

Cheers!