Hello Lisa,
Good on you for maintaining door gaskets! And you are correct, new elastomers can impart flavor.
Assuming the gasket meets with your product contact material specifications,
try conditioning via immersion in viable yeast slurry, for 3 days. Use a vessel unrelated to current production.
Upon removal, repeat your sensory analysis procedure.
I'll be surprised if there isn't a TQ article or MBAA literature reference on yeast conditioning procedures, and if others don't share their tips.
Let us know how it turns out for Heater.
Best,
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David Ammons, PE
Retired Brewing Engineering Manager
Saint Louis MO
ammfamd2@gmail.com------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 01-18-2023 17:52
From: Lisa Allen
Subject: Pungent smelling gasket
I recently purchased a replacement door gasket for one of my lagering tanks and, oooooh boy, is it pungent smelling. Almost floral like. It's so pungent that I'm worried it could impart a flavor or aroma on my beer.
Any suggestions as to how to get rid of the scent? We've already tried soaking it in caustic, thinking of trying PAA or a different acid sani next, but figured I'd come here to see if anyone has any suggestions.
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Lisa Allen (she/her)
Head Brewer/Production Manager/Owner
Heater Allen Brewing
McMinnville OR
(503) 472-4898
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