Several Dutch breweries are expected to feel minimal impact from the newly declared national water shortage. According to ‘Nederlandse Brouwers’, the industry association representing fifteen breweries across the Netherlands, many producers rely on their own underground water reserves. This ensures a stable supply even as national restrictions tighten.
Beer is largely made of water, and the brewing process depends on it at every stage, from rinsing bottles to cleaning equipment and cooling during production. Breweries that do use municipal tap water will adjust their operations when asked. In this way, they avoid peak consumption periods. Major brands such as Heineken, Grolsch, and Royal Swinkels fall under this umbrella group.
On Thursday, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management officially escalated the situation to a national water shortage. The government and drinking water companies are now preparing new measures. Measures will focus on ways to manage distribution and conservation, though the specifics have not yet been announced.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
