What is the purpose of adding finings after fermentation?

The purpose of adding finings after fermentation is primarily to precipitate yeast and proteins prior to bottling. Finings are substances that help clarify the beer by binding to suspended particles such as yeast and proteins, causing them to clump together and settle out of the beer. This process improves the clarity and stability of the beer, resulting in a cleaner final product that is visually appealing and more shelf-stable.

This practice is crucial for brewers who seek to deliver a polished and refined beverage without unwanted sediment or turbidity in the final packaged product. It does not directly contribute to flavor or aroma, nor does it facilitate carbonation, which is achieved through other methods like priming sugars or forced carbonation.