Beer waste may boost sunscreen power
A byproduct of beer production could help make sunscreens far more effective against harmful ultraviolet rays, according to a new study by researchers in Brazil, reports a Qazinform News Agency correspondent.
Scientists found that “spent hops,” the leftover plant material from brewing beer, may significantly increase protection against UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburns and can contribute to skin cancer.
Hops, the cone-shaped flowers of the Humulus lupulus vine, are widely used in beer production for flavor and aroma. While much of their content is used during brewing, the remaining waste still contains bioactive compounds and antioxidants previously linked to UV protection.
Researchers added an extract from spent hops to a water-based sunscreen formula and discovered that it boosted the product’s Sun Protection Factor (SPF) from about 54 to 178 during laboratory testing.
The findings come amid growing scrutiny of sunscreen effectiveness and safety. A recent analysis by Consumer Reports found that many sunscreens sold in stores delivered lower SPF protection than advertised.
Study coordinator André Rolim Baby said further testing is still required before the technology can be commercially used.
“For this idea to reach the market, further studies and validations are needed, such as the long-term stability of the sunscreen, standardizing the bioactive compounds, and clinically evaluating safety and efficacy,” he said in a press release.
Health experts continue to recommend daily use of SPF 30 sunscreen, which blocks around 97% of UVB rays when applied correctly. For extended sun exposure, SPF 50 products may provide additional protection.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that scientists had presented an updated list of RNA viruses capable of infecting humans.
