Unlock Smooth Canning: Food-Safe, Bio-Based Lubricant Fixes Craft Brewer Line Jams

Every great brew starts with a well-run production line. Recently, the Brewers Association noted that small and independent breweries in the U.S. generated nearly $30 billion in retail sales. Keeping equipment in top shape isn’t just smart — it helps avoid losses, contamination, and ensures that every pint is consistent.

At Olde Mother Brewing Company in Frederick, Maryland, owner Keith Marcoux knows that small adjustments can create big results. When their canning line faced issues with a sticky carousel, they discovered a solution in Renewable Lubricants’ Bio-Penetrating Lubricant (BPL) Food Grade Aerosol. This change reduced downtime and waste, all while keeping the beer fresh and the staff safe.

Founded in 2015, Olde Mother started as a passion project and blossomed into a beloved brand in Frederick. They kicked off their brewing journey with a 55-gallon system in a small space and now boast a larger facility, producing around a thousand barrels each year. They offer a variety of beers, from classic stouts to inventive fruit sours, known for their experimentation and vibrant flavors.

With over 9,736 small breweries in the U.S. in 2024, competition is fierce. Breweries face challenges like supply chain issues and equipment upkeep, which can significantly impact costs. Many are also exploring health-conscious or innovative brews, requiring investments in new equipment and recipes. Any inefficiency in production can add up quickly. For Olde Mother, ensuring product quality while meeting industry regulations is vital for keeping their finances healthy.

Olde Mother’s canning line packs beer into 12-ounce cans at a rapid pace. A small delay or mechanical hiccup can lead to misaligned cans and wasted product. Recently, Marcoux struggled with sticking parts that disrupted production. “Cleaning with isopropyl alcohol and hot water wasn’t working,” he explains. Each morning’s startup resulted in several wasted cans due to these sticking issues.

During a visit from an old friend, Ben Garmier, Marcoux received a sample of the BPL Food Grade Aerosol. “This food-grade lubricant in aerosol form changed everything,” he recalls. Its easy application reached tight spaces that traditional lubrication methods couldn’t manage. Plus, being tasteless and odorless, there was no risk of flavor affecting their beer. The switch drastically reduced startup waste and improved their maintenance routine by keeping parts functioning smoothly.

Breweries must also adhere to strict food safety regulations, requiring them to identify contamination risks and establish preventive measures. BPL Food Grade lubricants are NSF H1 certified, making them safe around food processing areas. Unlike petroleum-based products, the biobased formula prevents rust, lubricates well, and avoids volatile compounds, contributing to a safer environment overall.

For Olde Mother, this shift not only ensured compliance but also enhanced production efficiency. They’ve experienced less downtime and frustration, leading to longer-lasting equipment and a safer workspace. “It’s effective and easy to use,” Marcoux states. “And it’s always available when we need it.”

Every decision at a brewery matters, especially when it comes to managing costs and meeting regulations. Investing in quality supplies, like effective lubricants, can create a more robust business. Whether it’s to avoid production delays or promote sustainability, the right lubrication is a small yet essential component that keeps breweries thriving.

Ben Garmier is the vice president of marketing and business development at Renewable Lubricants Inc.

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