The 106th meeting of MEBAK (Mitteleuropäische Brautechnische Analysenkommission e.V.) took place on April 10, 2026, at Hochschule Geisenheim University and brought together numerous experts from academia and industry. The event focused on current developments in analytical quality assurance and new methodological approaches.
The meeting was characterized by intensive professional exchange. In addition to honorary members Dr. Gerd Bender, Dr. August Gresser, and Roland Schmidt, many guests also participated, including Dr. Paul Besrukow (Hochschule Geisenheim University), Dr. Christian Schubert (VLB Berlin e.V.), and Jens Varnskühler (seedalive GmbH). Special thanks go to Hochschule Geisenheim University for hosting the event and providing excellent conditions. Particular recognition is due to Prof. Dr. Bianca May, whose commitment was instrumental in organizing and making the meeting possible.
Another highlight was the accompanying program, which included a wine tasting, guided tours of the laboratories, and the university’s impressive pilot plant facilities. Participants gained comprehensive insights into modern analytics, sensory testing methods, and current research infrastructures. In this context, MEBAK extends its special thanks to Prof. Dr. Bernd Lindemann.
In terms of content, the focus was especially on the further development of analytical methods and their harmonization. Among the topics discussed were current approaches in NDMA analysis and new sensory testing methods such as an extended in/out test. This work makes an important contribution to the continuous improvement and standardization of analytical procedures in the brewing and beverage industry.
Reports from the various working groups highlighted the high level of activity within MEBAK. These reports presented current developments and ongoing projects. It is particularly noteworthy that several methods in the area of packaging and product equipment (GuP) are close to publication and will soon be made available to the industry.
A central component of the meeting was also the specialist and guest presentations. Jens Varnskühler (seedalive GmbH) presented a rapid germination test for plant seeds, opening up new perspectives for analytics. Dr. Jennifer Schneiderbanger introduced innovative approaches for determining the optimal temperatures of starch-degrading enzymes using a half-life method, while Florian Heukäufer (M.Sc.) provided insights into various testing procedures for glass bottles and their relevance for bottle quality. These presentations offered valuable impulses for both research and practical application and were discussed in depth by the participants.
During the meeting, Florian Heukäufer (M.Sc.) and Dr. Jennifer Schneiderbanger were also unanimously accepted as new members of MEBAK. MEBAK warmly welcomes both and looks forward to future collaboration and professional exchange.
With this meeting, MEBAK once again reaffirms its central role as a platform for scientific and technical exchange in brewing and beverage analytics and provides important impetus for the further development of methods, standards, and cooperation within the industry.
Looking ahead to the coming months, preparations have already been made for the next meeting, which is scheduled to take place in Erding.
