Filtering beer does not necessarily remove carbonation. The carbonation level in beer is determined by the amount of dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) in the liquid. When beer is filtered, it undergoes a process where solids and particles are removed to achieve clarity and stability. This filtration process can be done before or after carbonation, depending on the desired outcome.
If the beer is filtered before carbonation, it means that the beer is clarified and stabilized first, and then carbonation is added afterward. This method is often preferred because filtering can remove any unwanted particles or sediment that may affect the taste or appearance of the final product. By filtering the beer first, the brewer can ensure that the carbonation is evenly distributed throughout the liquid without any interference from solids.
On the other hand, if the beer is filtered after carbonation, it means that the beer has already been carbonated, and the filtration process is done to remove any remaining solids or particles. This method requires more attention to maintaining the back pressure on the receiving keg to prevent excessive loss of carbonation during the filtration process.
In both cases, filtering beer does not inherently remove carbonation. However, it is important to note that filtration can potentially affect carbonation levels if not done properly. If the filtration process is too aggressive or if the back pressure is not maintained correctly, it may result in the loss of carbonation from the beer. This can be undesirable, as carbonation plays a significant role in the overall flavor and mouthfeel of the beer.
Personal experience: As a homebrewer, I have filtered beer both before and after carbonation. In my experience, filtering beer before carbonation has been more straightforward and yielded consistent results. By ensuring that the beer is clarified and stabilized before carbonation, I have been able to achieve the desired carbonation level without any significant loss. However, when filtering beer after carbonation, I have found it more challenging to maintain the proper back pressure and have experienced some loss of carbonation during the filtration process. It requires careful monitoring and adjustment to prevent overcarbonation or undercarbonation in the final product.