The isomerization of alpha-acids to iso-alpha-acids during wort boiling suffers from low yields, which are seldom higher than 30%. The transfer of the alpha-acids from the vegetative hop material, the restricted solubility of the alpha-acids in the aqueous matrix and the almost neutral wort (pH 5-5.5) are critical factors. A better utilization of hops is effected when hop extracts are used (40-50%). Liquid or supercritical carbon dioxide is, indeed, an excellent medium to extract both the hop acids and the hop oil from hops. Thus, new technologies aimed at exploiting the full potential of hops and optimizing the utilization of hops in the brewing of beer - on the basis of original findings in our laboratory - are gaining considerable importance. Oppor- tunities for the development of more flavour-consistent beers and diversified beer types abound.