Star San is a popular acid-based sanitizer used by homebrewers and commercial breweries alike to effectively clean and sanitize brewing equipment.
What is Star San made of?
Star San is primarily made up of phosphoric acid and dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid. These ingredients work together to provide a powerful sanitizing solution that is both effective and safe when used properly.
How does Star San work?
When diluted with water, Star San creates an acidic solution that effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms on surfaces. The acid in Star San lowers the pH of the solution, creating an environment that is inhospitable to most microorganisms.
Is Star San safe to use?
When used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, Star San is considered safe for use in brewing equipment. It is important to follow the recommended dilution ratios and contact times to ensure that it is used properly.
Advantages of using Star San
- Effective at killing a wide range of microorganisms
- Does not require rinsing when used at the recommended concentration
- Non-corrosive to stainless steel and other brewing equipment
- Environmentally friendly and biodegradable
How to use Star San
When using Star San to sanitize brewing equipment, it is important to follow these steps:
- Prepare a solution of Star San by diluting the concentrate with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ensure that all surfaces to be sanitized are clean and free of debris.
- Submerge or spray the surfaces with the Star San solution, making sure to cover all areas thoroughly.
- Allow the solution to remain in contact with the surfaces for the recommended contact time (usually 1-2 minutes).
- Do not rinse the surfaces after sanitizing with Star San, as it is safe for consumption at the recommended concentration.
Common misconceptions about Star San
There are a few myths and misconceptions surrounding the use of Star San in brewing. Here are a few common ones:
- Myth: Star San needs to be rinsed off after sanitizing.
- Fact: Star San is safe for consumption at the recommended concentration and does not need to be rinsed off.
- Myth: Star San is harmful to stainless steel equipment.
- Fact: Star San is non-corrosive to stainless steel and other brewing equipment when used properly.
- Myth: Star San is not effective at killing bacteria.
- Fact: Star San is an effective sanitizer that kills a wide range of microorganisms when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Alternatives to Star San
While Star San is a popular choice for sanitizing brewing equipment, there are other options available. Some alternatives to Star San include:
- One Step Cleaner and Sanitizer
- Iodophor sanitizers
- Bleach solutions