The Isomerization of Humulone

R.P. Hildebrand

Abstract
During the course of the degradation of the humulones to humulinic acid, interesting intermediates termed isohumulones of great importance to the brewing industry are obtained. These substances together probably constitute the major components responsible for the bitterness of beer and are formed to some extent during normal wort boiling.

Keywords: bitterness, isohumulone