No, it’s not time for St. Patty’s day yet, but there is reason for celebration.

Several major brewing companies have been doing their part for the environment by developing and marketing organic beer. These new eco-friendly beers are becoming a big business for many major breweries around the world. Take for instance, Anheuser-Busch’s (Budweiser, Beck’s, Busch) newly developed “Stone Mill Organic Ale” beer;

“uses 100 percent organic hops and 100 percent organic barley malt, certified by the United States Department of Agriculture and the independent organic organization, Quality Assurance International (QAI). QAI is an accredited certifying agent under the USDA’s National Organic Program”

According to their website (http://www.stonemillpaleale.com), they recycle over 97% of all solid waste associated with making their beer. Anheuser-Busch is not the only company jumping on the organic bandwagon, the MillerCoors Company has also developed their own organic beer. Henry Weinhard’s Organic Amber Premium Ale is certified 95% organic, and is USDA certified.

That being said, it is important to keep in mind the fossil-fuel consumption and gas emissions related to the major brewing companies shipping these brands. That is why it is suggested that eco-friendly beer drinkers stick to local microbreweries as much as possible.

Cheers!