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Ms Caitlin Prueitt, Research Assistant, U.S. Department of Agriculture-ARS Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
The hop chemistry research program’s primary objective is to analyze samples from the USDA-ARS hop genetics and breeding research program. Samples include varieties from the germplasm collection, progeny of crosses, male genotypes, and off-station trials. Accurate analysis is essential for the development of new hop varieties and breeding germplasm. Sample sets include those collected from mature female hop plants, five-cone samples collected from potential selections, and male flowers.
The analyses methods utilized in the laboratory are approved by the American Society of Brewing Chemists and endorsed by industry. The primary analyses performed are for the determination of alpha acids, beta acids (and their constituents), oil content and composition, and dry matter. To carry out the analyses, the laboratory is outfitted with highly precise instrumentation including a gas chromatograph, high performance liquid chromatographer, spectrophotometer, and precision scales.
The hop chemistry program has several secondary objectives that are overseen by the hop chemist. The laboratory processes hop samples that are submitted for analysis by the State Department of Agriculture and private industry. The chemist and laboratory assistants provide support to research efforts in the greenhouse and the hop farm. Research efforts also include identifying potential new uses for hop.
Future research will include the analysis of xanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin with the goal of determining the most effective analyses and standards development.
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