The new GOST (state standard) for beer is set to become effective in 2027. This forthcoming regulation introduces a clearer definition for what constitutes “beer” and expands the variety of malts permitted in its production. This article explores the potential changes and implications this new standard will bring to the Russian brewing industry.
Rosstandart has officially adopted the new GOST on beer, aiming to provide a more precise and definitive understanding of the term. Under the new guidelines, a product can only be legally designated as “beer” if it contains no artificial flavorings and its ethyl alcohol content is solely derived from the fermentation of beer wort, which must be produced from malt, hops, or hop products.
Furthermore, the standard broadens the palette of malts available for brewers. In addition to traditional barley and wheat malts, producers will now be allowed to incorporate rye, buckwheat, and other malts. A key provision states that malt must constitute at least 80% of the raw materials used in beer production, with other ingredients making up no more than 20%. To understand the potential impact of these changes, Alexander Idzhon, author of the “Beer Bottle” blog and coordinator for the “Craft-depot” association of craft breweries, offered his perspective:
“The new GOST presents both positive and somewhat controversial aspects. On the positive side, the inclusion of additional malt types like buckwheat and millet is a welcome development, as these were previously prohibited – even rye malt faced restrictions. Regarding unmalted raw materials, this is an old battle between mid-sized breweries and larger industry giants, often accused of overusing adjuncts, purportedly compromising beer quality. Frankly, I believe that in a blind tasting, no one could differentiate between a beer made with 20% unmalted ingredients and one made with 100% malt. The choice of exactly 20% is puzzling; why would 21% suddenly alter the product`s fundamental nature? It seems like populism to me. Other changes are unlikely to have a significant impact. Claims about reducing counterfeiting are unfounded – show me a single instance of falsified beer with added alcohol; such cases simply don`t exist. Overall, this GOST will bring minimal change. Some existing beer beverages, currently made with various non-traditional malts, will now rightfully be classified as beer, which is a positive outcome. Beyond that, no major shifts are expected. This GOST is likely a step towards a comprehensive technical regulation that is still pending adoption, and notably, it lacks the term `special beer` found in that broader regulation. There`s ample time for breweries to adapt, print new labels, so practical problems are not anticipated.”
Alexander Idzhon
Author of “Beer Bottle” blog, Coordinator for “Craft-depot” association of craft breweries
The new GOST also holds potential for better regulation of the rapidly expanding segment of beer-based beverages, an aspect considered even more critical by Denis Puzyrev, editor of the “Drunken Master” Telegram channel:
“This is a technical matter, yet profoundly significant for the industry, especially given the many years the Union of Russian Brewers has campaigned for such changes. There’s a second, arguably more crucial, related discussion concerning a more precise definition for `beer-based beverages.` Currently, this category is incredibly broad, encompassing everything from beers like `Corona,` brewed using methods that allow for wider use of unmalted or alternative ingredients such as corn, to drinks that are frequently mistaken for sparkling wine. A quick look at their back labels might reveal them to be either cider or a beer-based beverage that bears no resemblance to traditional beer. Many low-alcohol cocktails, despite their often dubious red or green liquid compositions, are also classified as beer-based beverages. Furthermore, the liquid involved in the major `Mr. Cider` poisoning scandal was, by official documentation, a beer-based beverage. In my view, establishing clearer parameters for what genuinely constitutes a beer-based beverage and what absolutely cannot be labeled as such will be far more impactful than the new GOST itself.”
Denis Puzyrev
Alcohol Market Expert, Author of “Drunken Master” Telegram channel
The standard is slated for implementation at the beginning of 2027, with provisions for early adoption. Its development commenced in 2019. The regulation currently in force dates back to 2012, and many market participants view it as long overdue for an update.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth