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Expert: - 8/18/2004


Question
Hello, I have been using the bleach trick for years and have heard about iodine and other sanitzers, could you tell me if there are others that work better without that clorine taste, and where are they available in the Nor Cal area?
Thank you in advance,
Michael

Answer
Michael,

I very rarely ever use  bleach as a cleaner.  In stead I use B.T.F. Iodophor: Iodine sanitizer formulated for the brewing industry; 3 tsp per 5 gallons for 12-15ppm.  It gets the job done with out the taste problem and can be used with or with out rinsing.  The cost is about $10.00 for 17 oz. so a bottle last a long time.  You can purchase it at any good brew store.  You can purchase it from DeFalcos at http://www.defalcos.com/item120060.ctlg .

The important thing is to sanitize.  You could use bleach but I prefer Iodophor.  Good luck and happy brewing.
Alan  

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Alan Ward

Expertise

I am a home brewer who has been brewing since 2000. For us brewing is a family activity with everyone helping in some small way. We brew mostly all grain batches, but we do some kits. I have built all of our equipment. We bottle and keg. Drop us an line, we will be glad to assist with answer or help you find where the answer is. In October 2008 we opened the Brigadoon Brewery & Brew School at the Texas Renaisance Festival. This is a unique brewpub and teaching facility located on the grounds of the Texas Renaissance Festival in Plantersville, Texas. To our knowledge we are the only functioning brewpub located on the grounds of a renaissance festival brewing using both period specific equipment and modern equipment to brew hand crafted ale and then serving it back to the public. Where we offer hands on training and live period appropriate all grain brewing through out the day. Drop by and we will be glad to answer any question you have. You can checkout the brewery at www.brigadoonbrewery.com or follow on twitter@brewschool.

Experience

Home brewing since 2000. Started with a Mr. Beer kit and worked our way up to all grain.

Former chemistry and physics teacher.

Education:
Bachelors Arts Teaching; Master Instructional Technology
Currently the Managing Member and Brewmaster for Brigadoon Brewery & Brew School.

Organizations
Master Brewers Associaiton of America Texas Craft Brewers Guild American Home Brewers Association Brewers Association

Education/Credentials
Bachelors in Sports Medine from Sam Houston State University Masters in Instructional Technology from American Intercontinental University

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