Can You Keg Canned Beer? The Benefits and Drawbacks Explained

When it comes to serving beer, the traditional keg system has been a longstanding favorite. But what if you already have a bunch of canned beer? Can you put canned beer in a keg, and should you? This article will explore the pros and cons of using canned beer for serving in a keg, helping you make an informed decision based on the benefits and drawbacks.

Introduction to Kegging and Canning

The art of kegging has been around for decades, with beer lovers around the world enjoying the convenience and cost-effectiveness of this method. Canning, on the other hand, offers a more secure and shelf-stable packaging option. Despite the advantages of both methods, the question remains: can you put canned beer in a keg? This article will provide a comprehensive answer to that question.

Reasons to Keg Canned Beer

Enhanced Presentation and Beverage Control

One reason why many beer drinkers prefer kegs over cans is the enhanced presentation. Kegs provide a more sophisticated and professional look, making them ideal for casual get-togethers and large-scale events. In addition, kegging allows for better control over the serving process, ensuring that each sip is perfect. This is particularly important during special occasions or when hosting a large number of guests.

Consistency and Flavor

When it comes to serving beer, consistency is key, especially in terms of taste and carbonation levels. While canned beer stored properly can maintain its quality for a longer period, transferring it to a keg can ensure that customers get the best possible experience every time. The controlled environment of a keg can help maintain the beer's flavor, ensuring that it tastes as intended without any undesirable changes.

Why Not Keg Canned Beer?

Capital Investment in New Kegs

One primary reason for not transferring canned beer to a keg is the capital investment required. Kegs are a considerable initial cost, and purchasing new kegs for canned beer might not be justified, especially if the cans cannot be reused. While it is possible to reuse kegs several times, the costs associated with cleaning and maintaining them are substantial.

Oxygenation Concerns

Another significant downside is the risk of oxygenation. When transferring beer from cans to kegs, the process can expose the beer to oxygen, which can degrade its flavor and freshness. This issue is particularly pertinent for canned beer, as it is more susceptible to oxygen penetration through the cans' porous nature. Sealing the cans tightly can mitigate this issue, but it adds an extra step that could be avoided by using kegs from the outset.

Tips for Kegging Canned Beer

Despite the challenges, there are ways to make kegging canned beer as efficient and enjoyable as possible. Here are a few tips to help you navigate this process:

Use Pressure Kegs

To minimize oxygenation, it is recommended to use pressure kegs, which apply carbon dioxide to keep the beer under pressure. This helps maintain carbonation and flavor. Pressure kegs can be slightly more expensive initially, but they offer better protection for canned beer.

Transfer System

Invest in a reliable transfer system that can quickly and efficiently move the beer from the cans to the keg. This system should include a proper funnel and transfer tool, ensuring no oxygen gets into the transfer process.

Keep Beer Cold

Ensure the beer stays cold during the transfer process. Use cold water or ice to chill the cans before transfer to help minimize the temperature rise that can occur during the process. This step is crucial in preserving the beer's quality.

Conclusion

While it is possible to keg canned beer, the decision to do so should be made carefully, considering factors such as cost, presentation, and the risk of oxygenation. If you are inclined to keg your canned beer, ensure you follow best practices to maintain the quality of the beer. For most, however, the advantages of using kegs from the start will outweigh the benefits of using canned beer.

In summary, kegging canned beer can be done, but it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. By understanding the reasons for and against kegging canned beer, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and preferences.