Carlsberg has announced that its Carlsberg Research Laboratory has produced the most detailed genetic map of hops to date, a step that could help scientists and breeders develop hop varieties better able to withstand heat, drought and changing growing conditions.
The research, published on 27 May 2026 in Nature Communications, focuses on the complex genome of the commercially important hop variety Apollo. The study maps both chromosome versions inherited from the plant’s parents and distinguishes between European and North American genetic lineages, which are widely combined in modern hop breeding.
According to Carlsberg, the new genome map gives researchers a clearer view of where important traits are located and how they are inherited. This could support more targeted breeding of hops with improved climate resilience, stable yields, new flavour and aroma profiles, and potentially lower agricultural inputs.
“Challenges like climate change are bigger than any one company,” said Birgitte Skadhauge, Vice President and Head of the Carlsberg Research Laboratory. She said sharing the research gives scientists and breeders tools to protect crops, innovate and help secure the future of beer.
Ilka Braumann, Head of Hop Development at the Carlsberg Research Laboratory, said hops are genetically far more complex than many people realise. By separating the European and North American lineages in the genome, researchers can now better understand how traits come together and how more resilient varieties may be developed.
The publication also marks a broader milestone for the Carlsberg Research Laboratory. After earlier contributions to genome research in barley and yeast, the laboratory has now advanced scientific understanding of the three traditional non-water ingredients in beer: barley, yeast and hops.
Founded in 1875 by brewer and philanthropist J.C. Jacobsen, the Carlsberg Research Laboratory has a long scientific history, including contributions such as the invention of the pH scale. Carlsberg says the latest hop research follows its tradition of sharing scientific findings beyond the company.
