How Safe Is Montana Beer from Forever Chemicals?

So here’s a little something to think about, sobering as it may be: A new study finds that 95 percent of beers tested in the United States are brewed with “forever chemicals,” known as PFAS. And these are the same chemicals linked to cancer and other health problems. The kicker? They likely come from tap water used to brew beer.

So, before you freak and dump that favourite Montana brew down the drain, give me a moment to explain. The study did not test any Montana beers. Right, Big Sky brews are missing from that list. But that is not necessarily the end of the story.

The compounds have been found in water supplies around the country, including in Montana. PFAS levels have been sampled across the state, including in Great Falls, Bozeman, and Helena, per the Department of Environmental Quality. The levels here exist.

But because beer is roughly 90 percent water, the water used to brew it is essential. And if those PFAS are in the water, then they could end up in the beer. Standard filtration systems in use at breweries might not fully eliminate these chemicals.

So what does this mean for beer-drinking fans of Montana beer? Back local breweries that place water quality near the top of their “how we brew our beer” list. Ask your favorite brewery how they source and filter, if you’re curious.

So crank open another Summer Honey or Coldsmoke, but maybe a little bit of curiosity about what you’re drinking couldn’t hurt. 1 or 2 beers might make it easier to cope with the thought of it.