A Fresh Take on Beer Waste: Barley Aroma Bacon
In a wonderful fusion of tradition and innovation, Kreutzer, a specialist in German-style hams and sausages, has unveiled a new product called "Barley Aroma Bacon - brewed with YOAKE ". Set for limited release on January 30, 2026, this gourmet bacon makes rich use of the leftover brewing materials from the award-winning craft beer, YOAKE, produced by Buso Brewery in Machida, Tokyo.
Bringing New Life to Beer By-Products
Recognized internationally, the craft beer YOAKE, which recently won a gold medal at the 2025 International Beer Cup, utilizes high-quality barley, hops, and yeast. Kreutzer identified these brewing by-products as an invaluable resource rather than mere waste. The project goes beyond just launching a new product; it aims to create a new specialty for the Machida region by enhancing the flavor of what would otherwise be discarded.
Craftsmanship Behind Barley Aroma Bacon
Careful attention to detail defines the production of Barley Aroma Bacon. It embraces the rich, roasted aromas and malt sweetness characteristic of the YOAKE stout beer.
- - Maturation: The brewing by-products, including barley, hops, and yeast, are slowly matured with salt and spices for about a week, maximizing flavor extraction through fermentation.
- - Two-step Brewing: Following maturation, the bacon undergoes a unique two-step process that incorporates beer for salting and enhancing flavor, further elevating its taste.
- - Premium Smoking Technique: The bacon is smoked using a blend of cherry tree and beech wood chips, perfecting its malty aroma and deep sweetness while leaving behind a lingering smoky finish.
This careful crafting provides a unique tasting experience that embodies the robust character of craft beer and high-quality bacon.
Product Details
- - Product Name: Barley Aroma Bacon - brewed with YOAKE
- - Launch Date: Available for limited sale starting January 30, 2026
- - Price: ¥590 (excluding tax) per 100g
- - Content: Comes in portions of 100g and 200g
- - Ingredients: Made from domestic pork belly, salt, spices, curing agents (sodium nitrite), sugar, Vitamin C, and spent yeast from YOAKE.
- - Sales Channels: Available at Kreutzer's physical store as well as their online shop.
The owner of Kreutzer shared their thoughts on this innovative product, emphasizing the remarkable aroma of the YOAKE beer and the beauty of utilizing its brewing residues. They regarded it as a challenge to connect Machida's rich food culture with a sustainable future.
To that end, Kreutzer aims to deliver Barley Aroma Bacon as a part of the new wave of local specialties that emphasize quality, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness.
Location and Contact for Kreutzer
Kreutzer's dedication to tradition and sustainability resonates not only through their product offerings but also reflects their commitment to local agriculture and craft.
Address: 2-16-2 Naruse-dai, Machida, Tokyo, 194-0043
Phone: 042-725-2231
Website:
Kreutzer
Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays)
Through Kreutzer's efforts, local businesses can collaborate to transform waste into gourmet delights, ensuring the flavors and stories of Machida's food culture continue to thrive.
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and local resources, Barley Aroma Bacon stands out not just as a food product, but as a symbol of creativity and community impact.