Breweries & Beverage Production
A well-known operational challenge
Wastewater from breweries and beverage production is characterised by high organic load (COD/BOD), primarily originating from sugars, alcohol, yeast and residual biomass. Combined with batch-based production, this leads to large and rapid load variations in the wastewater system.
In practice, this often results in:
- Accumulation of organic sludge in collection and equalisation tanks
- Development of anaerobic zones and odour formation
- Persistent biofilm in tanks, piping and dead zones
- Unstable COD levels prior to discharge or further treatment
These challenges are well documented across the brewing industry and represent a significant operational and compliance burden if not managed proactively.
Why the problem persists
Mechanical pre-treatment alone removes coarse solids but leaves fine and dissolved organic matter in the system. Chemical treatment can temporarily suppress symptoms, but often at the cost of:
- Increased sludge production
- Reduced biological stability
- Recurring issues once dosing is reduced or stopped
As a result, many breweries experience repeated operational interventions rather than long-term stabilisation.
Biosep Nordic's approach
Biosep Nordic works with process stabilisation, not short-term correction. Our solution combines mechanical separation, biological activity and system stabilisation to reduce upstream load and support a more balanced wastewater process.
Mechanical separation
Early removal of suspended solids, yeast aggregates and coarse organic matter reduces uncontrolled sedimentation and downstream load.
Probiotic biological treatment
Selected probiotic microorganisms biologically degrade organic compounds and compete with unwanted biofilm-forming organisms. This supports a more controlled aerobic process and limits the formation of odour-causing anaerobic conditions over time.
Biopolymer-supported stabilisation
Biopolymers promote aggregation of fine particles and controlled settling, reducing circulating fines, overall sludge volume and system stress.
The solution is designed to integrate into existing wastewater infrastructure without interfering with production or food safety.
Value for the brewery
Biological COD reduction and biofilm control are well-established processes in brewery wastewater treatment. System stabilisation is gradual and dependent on load profile, temperature and retention time.