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Aircapture and Almanac Beer Co. have announced the launch of Flow - Clean Air Edition (Flow – CAE), marking the first commercial application of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) in the brewing process. Utilising modular Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology installed at Almanac’s Alameda facility, the project demonstrates a viable alternative to traditional, fossil-fuel-dependent CO2 sourcing. This deployment addresses long-standing supply chain vulnerabilities and introduces a circular resource model for the quick-service and craft beverage sectors.

The integration of DAC technology follows a period of significant disruption in the CO2 market. In 2022, structural shortages linked to the volatility of ammonia and ethanol production, primary industrial sources of CO2, resulted in increased costs and production delays for food and beverage manufacturers.

By pulling CO2 directly from ambient air, Aircapture’s system allows manufacturers to bypass volatile industrial cycles. This decentralised approach transforms CO2 from a byproduct of fuel production into a reliable on-site utility. According to Aircapture leadership, this transition is critical for a global commodity market valued in the tens of billions of dollars.

Technical Integration

Aircapture’s modular system is designed for rapid deployment, becoming operational within weeks rather than the years typically required for large-scale carbon removal infrastructure. The unit integrates directly with existing brewing equipment, requiring no dedicated facility expansion or production downtime.

Technical highlights of the Flow – CAE process include:

• High Purity Output: The system delivers liquid CO2 with a 99.999% purity level, exceeding standard beverage-grade specifications.

• Onsite Generation: The technology purifies atmospheric carbon at the point of use, eliminating the need for long-distance transport logistics.

• Modular Scalability: The "plug-and-play" nature of the unit allows for integration into diverse industrial environments beyond brewing, including agriculture and refrigeration.

A Circular Economic Model

The partnership highlights a shift in how essential ingredients are viewed within the industry. By sourcing CO2 from the atmosphere, Almanac Beer Co. has created a circular production floor where atmospheric carbon becomes an industrial-grade resource.

The initiative also supports broader environmental policy through contributions to Carbon180, a nonprofit focused on carbon removal legislation. Flow – CAE is currently available at Almanac’s Alameda brewery and across 800 retail accounts in California, including major chains such as Safeway, Whole Foods, and Total Wine. This wide distribution serves as a market test for the commercial viability of DAC-carbonated products in a competitive retail landscape.