Distilling Good Spirits: A New Purpose for Craft Distilleries
In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, many industries have had to pivot their operations to help combat the global shortage of hand sanitizers. Among them are craft distilleries, which have stepped up to produce high-quality, alcohol-based hand sanitizers using their expertise in spirit distillation. This shift not only helps meet the increased demand for hygiene products but also showcases the versatility and community spirit of these distilleries.
Understanding the Alcohol-Sanitizer Connection
Alcohol is a key ingredient in hand sanitizers due to its ability to inactivate viruses and bacteria. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends using ethanol (or ethyl alcohol) at a concentration of at least 70% to make effective hand sanitizers. Craft distilleries, which typically use ethanol in their spirit production, are well-positioned to produce these vital products.
From Spirits to Sanitizers: The Distilling Process
Converting a distillery's operations to produce hand sanitizer involves a few adjustments to the typical spirit-making process. Here's a simplified breakdown:
- Distillation: The distillery begins by distilling ethanol to the required purity and concentration.
- Mixing: The ethanol is then mixed with hydrogen peroxide and glycerin to create a final solution that meets the WHO's recommended formula.
- Bottling: The sanitizer is then bottled, labeled, and packaged for distribution.
While the process is similar to that of producing spirits, the final product is far from a spirit-based beverage. The addition of hydrogen peroxide and glycerin ensures the final product is safe and effective for use as a hand sanitizer.
Distilleries Stepping Up to the Challenge
Many craft distilleries have risen to the occasion, using their resources and expertise to produce hand sanitizers. Some notable examples include:
- Spirit Works Distillery in California, which has been producing hand sanitizer since March 2020 and has donated thousands of bottles to local communities and essential workers.
- Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, which started producing hand sanitizer in late March 2020 and has donated over 140,000 bottles to various organizations and communities.
- Copper & Kings American Brandy Company in Louisville, Kentucky, which has been producing hand sanitizer since April 2020 and has donated a significant portion of its production to local hospitals and first responders.
These distilleries, along with many others, have demonstrated a strong commitment to their communities and a willingness to adapt their operations to meet the needs of the moment.
Regulations and Safety Considerations
While distilleries are well-equipped to produce hand sanitizers, it's crucial that they follow all relevant regulations and safety guidelines. This includes obtaining necessary permits, using approved ingredients, and ensuring their products meet the required alcohol concentration and purity standards.
Moreover, distilleries should clearly label their hand sanitizers as such, avoiding any confusion with their spirit-based products. They should also ensure their sanitizers are packaged in child-resistant containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
Looking Ahead: A New Role for Distilleries?
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the versatility and community spirit of craft distilleries. While the demand for hand sanitizers may decrease as the pandemic eases, the role of distilleries in producing essential hygiene products may continue. For instance, distilleries could potentially produce other alcohol-based products, such as disinfectants or sanitizing wipes, in the future.
Furthermore, the pandemic has underscored the importance of local, resilient supply chains. As communities look to rebuild and strengthen their local economies, craft distilleries may play a crucial role in producing essential goods and supporting their communities.
