The Drinks Business

By Jessica Mason

Could Making Soap from Craft Beer Help the Sector Reduce Waste?

White Pine Bath & Brew, which creates vegan soap with out of date beer, is expanding its reach, raising the question — why aren’t more companies doing this?

White Pine Bath & Brew founder Elaine Kinney revealed in local reports that after setting up the business in Maine during the pandemic, she has since expanded its portfolio to feature 16 different beers from 11 breweries across the state and aims to broaden the business further.

Kinney explained not only is beer “good for the skin” but it also brings added benefits “due to the brewer’s yeast and hops it contains”. Plus, according to Kinney the “amino acids in hops sooth irritated skin and the brewer’s yeast has several essential vitamins”.

Kinney said: “There are so many incredible entrepreneurs in southern Maine. I saw these people creating their own dream jobs and opening small businesses that became major hubs for the community.”

To be of benefit to both the environment and also the local area, White Pine Bath & Brew has since engaged in fundraising initiatives, partnering with school districts and Peace Ridge Sanctuary to give back to the community.

The goal of the business revolves around “sustainability and reducing waste” said Kinney who explained that “by accepting short-fills and past-date beer from local breweries, White Pine Bath & Brew contributes to a eco-friendlier and more sustainable ecosystem for all involved”.

She explained: “What was once excess beer destined for disposal now finds new life as a valuable ingredient in a soap-making process” and revealed how “craft beer also contributes to a luxurious lather, enhancing the overall bathing experience”.

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