German Reinheitsgebot

The German Reinheitsgebot, or Beer Purity Law, was established in 1516 to standardize brewing ingredients and maintain quality. It originally limited beer ingredients to barley, water, and hops (yeast was later understood to be essential), preventing the use of cheaper or potentially harmful additives. The law aimed to ensure beer safety, prevent price inflation, and uphold product integrity. Although modern regulations have expanded ingredient options for brewing, the Reinheitsgebot remains a symbol of quality and tradition in German beer culture.