The Ancient Art of Nixtamalization: Unveiling the Nutritional and Cultural Significance of Masa in Modern Cuisine

The ancient technique of nixtamalization, a cornerstone of Mesoamerican foodways, is experiencing a global resurgence, drawing attention from culinary professionals, nutritionists, and home cooks alike. This sophisticated process, which transforms dried corn into "masa" (properly processed corn flour), is not merely a cooking method but a vital biotechnological innovation that unlocks superior nutritional value and…

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American Homebrewers Association Appoints New Leadership for Iconic National Homebrew Competition

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has announced the appointment of Charlie Harr as the new Chair and Jen Pereira as the Deputy Chair for the prestigious National Homebrew Competition (NHC). This pivotal leadership transition comes as the NHC, widely recognized as the most iconic and competitive global contest for beer, mead, and cider, prepares to…

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The March/April 2026 Issue of Zymurgy Explores Brewing’s Adaptability in a Changing World

The latest issue of Zymurgy, the flagship publication of the American Homebrewers Association (AHA), arrives on newsstands and digital platforms with a compelling theme: the art of the pivot. This March/April 2026 edition delves into how brewers, from home enthusiasts to commercial enterprises, are navigating and thriving amidst a complex landscape of environmental challenges, economic…

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How Long Do Fermented Foods Truly Last? Unpacking Shelf Life and Storage Best Practices

The question of how long fermented foods remain viable and enjoyable is a perennial one, frequently surfacing in culinary workshops and among enthusiasts alike. While the simplest answer suggests "a long time"—a testament to fermentation’s ancient role as a primary food preservation method—the more precise and nuanced response is, "it depends." This variability hinges on…

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The January/February 2026 Zymurgy Magazine Unveils Pro-Am Champions, Celebrates Brewing Heritage, and Explores Global Trends

The latest issue of Zymurgy magazine, the official publication of the American Homebrewers Association (AHA), has landed, offering a comprehensive dive into the world of homebrewing and craft beer. The January/February 2026 edition prominently features the celebrated winners of the prestigious Pro-Am Competition, pays homage to enduring legacy breweries, dissects the dynamic evolution of the…

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2026 National Homebrew Competition Registration Opens for 48th Annual Celebration of Craft Brewing Excellence

Registration is officially open for the highly anticipated 2026 National Homebrew Competition (NHC), marking the 48th year of this prestigious event dedicated to celebrating and advancing the art and science of homebrewing. Organized by the American Homebrewers Association (AHA) and bolstered by the expertise of the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP), the NHC has a…

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Optimizing Fermentation: The Critical Role of Temperature in Microbial Activity and Food Preservation.

The intricate world of fermentation, a process driven by microscopic organisms, hinges critically on one fundamental environmental factor: temperature. Far from being a mere detail, temperature dictates the speed, safety, and ultimate success of fermentation, influencing everything from microbial growth rates to the resulting flavor profiles and probiotic content of fermented foods and beverages. Understanding…

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Homebrew Con 2026 Registration Opens for World’s Largest Homebrewing Celebration in Asheville, North Carolina

The highly anticipated Homebrew Con 2026, billed as the world’s largest homebrew party, has officially opened its registration doors, inviting enthusiasts from across the globe to converge in Asheville, North Carolina, from June 19-20, 2026. This landmark event, now in its 46th year, marks a significant milestone for the American Homebrewers Association (AHA) as it…

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American Homebrewers Association Announces Holiday Closure for Team Recharge and Festive Celebration

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) will be temporarily suspending operations from December 25, 2025, through January 1, 2026, to allow its staff to observe the holiday season and engage in essential rest and rejuvenation. This annual closure, a tradition aimed at fostering employee well-being and ensuring continued high-quality service in the coming year, signifies the…

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The American Homebrewers Association Opens Nominations for the 2026 Homebrew Shop of the Year Award

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has officially opened the nomination period for its prestigious 2026 Homebrew Shop of the Year Award, recognizing the vital role local supply shops play in fostering and sustaining the vibrant homebrewing community. This annual award celebrates businesses that go above and beyond in their support of homebrewers, serving as more…

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