Calling all beer lovers: come raise a glass with Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) brewing lab and 13 other local craft breweries to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the first beer quality and food safety law in history.
The Purity Law, also known as the “Reinheitsgebot,” was enacted in 1516 as a way of protecting consumers from drinking hazardous beverages.
At a time when there were no water safety standards, supplies were often polluted and people began drinking beer to stave off thirst.
“The goal was to protect the public from drinking poor standard beer,” said KPU brewing instructor Alek Egi.
“It is the first and oldest consumer regulations law in food and beverage production.”
In recognition of the law’s 500th anniversary, KPU is kicking off a passport-style event by opening the doors to the university’s brewing lab at KPU Langley on Saturday (April 23) from noon to 3 p.m.
Guests can pick up a complimentary Fraser Valley Craft Beer Passport at any participating brewery starting April 20.
Individual breweries will offer their own celebratory promotions, with various specials or discounts.
There will be beer on tap, tours and tastings at most participating venues, including brewery trivia.
Visitors can also taste KPU Brew, tour the university’s brewing lab and enter to win $800 in swag and craft beer prize packs.
“This event is a fun way to celebrate the history of beer and connect communities with their local Fraser Valley craft brewer,” said Betty Worobec, dean of KPU’s Faculty of Science and Horticulture.
“We’re excited to have so many breweries on board with the Fraser Valley Craft Beer Passport and hope to continue collaborating on fresh, new ways to engage with the public.”
In addition to the KPU Brewing Lab, Langley’s Trading Post Brewery and Aldergrove’s Dead Frog Brewery are also participating in the passport program.
