What is that green stuff growing in beer keg lines?

Biofilm is a complex community of microorganisms (like bacteria, yeast, and fungi) that attach to surfaces and form a slimy layer. It's very common in beer lines, especially if they're not cleaned regularly.

Here's why it's a problem:

* Taste and smell: Biofilm can give beer an off-flavor and odor, making it undesirable to drink.

* Appearance: The green slime can be visually unappealing and make the beer look cloudy.

* Health risks: Some microorganisms in biofilm can be harmful to human health.

What causes biofilm?

* Moisture: Beer lines are constantly exposed to moisture, providing a perfect environment for microorganisms to grow.

* Nutrients: Beer itself contains sugars and other nutrients that fuel microbial growth.

* Lack of cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential to prevent biofilm from forming.

How to prevent biofilm:

* Regular cleaning: Clean your beer lines with a dedicated beer line cleaner at least once a month.

* Sanitize: Sanitize your lines regularly to kill any remaining microorganisms.

* Use proper cleaning techniques: Follow the instructions on your cleaner and sanitize thoroughly.

* Avoid stagnant beer: Don't let beer sit in the lines for too long.

If you see green stuff in your beer lines, it's important to take action to remove it.