This is an unintended consequence of the reduction in Russian gas supplies.
While Nord Stream 1, the gas pipeline that supplies Western Europe, has only provided 20% of its capacity since last week, Germany now fears for its beer consumption.
During malting, the first stage necessary for the production of the alcohol preferred by our neighbors across the Rhine, the drying of the grain requires 750 to 1000 kWh per tonne.
Consequence:
"Without gas, Germany's number one energy source, supermarket shelves remain empty"
, warns the federation of German brewers.
The war in Ukraine deals a new blow to an industry already weakened by the health crisis, during which beer consumption had fallen.
Demand remains there, however, since the Germans consumed no less than 7.2 billion pints in the first half, or 6.4% more over one year, specifies AFP.
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Before the conflict, the breweries had already passed on the increase in production costs to their selling prices.
The war has further increased the price of beer ingredients, especially cereals, of which Ukraine and Russia are among the world's largest producers.
Thus, it is the entire sector that is weakened, especially since the gas is also used to manufacture the glass of the bottles.
