A group of Victorian brewers has introduced a novel beer called Belly Button Beer, which is crafted using a yeast strain cultivated from their belly button fluff. Co-founder Doug Bremner reassured that the yeast is carefully isolated and sterile, making it safe for consumption. The brewery, 7 Cent Brewery, based in Gisborne South, Victoria, successfully tested their first batch, a feat they celebrated given its unusual origins.
The yeast extraction involved swabbing the brewers’ belly buttons and cultivating samples, leading to the discovery of yeast colonies on agar plates. Inspired by Rogue’s Beard Beer, this unconventional brewing method aims to push the boundaries of beer production. The resultant Belly Button Beer is described as a Belgian-style Witbier, enriched with orange zest and toasted coriander seeds, producing a spiced flavour profile with hints of clove and banana esters.
The brewery, known for its experimental beers, has also produced an oyster stout and a ‘hipster beer’ featuring quinoa and chia seeds. They plan to showcase Belly Button Beer at the upcoming Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular in Melbourne and Sydney. Depending on public reception, the brewery may consider broader distribution post-event.