Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

What provides the maximum protection against skunking?

1. Cans, ceramic bottles, and bottles in closed case boxes

2. Clear bottles stored in cool places

3. Bottles stored under fluorescent lights

4. Plastic containers

The correct answer is: Cans, ceramic bottles, and bottles in closed case boxes

The maximum protection against skunking is provided by cans, ceramic bottles, and bottles stored in closed case boxes. Skunking occurs when beer is exposed to light, particularly UV light, which causes chemical reactions that lead to off-flavors. Cans are particularly effective because they completely block light, preventing any possibility of skunking. Ceramic bottles, while often opaque and not as common, can also protect beer very well from light exposure. Additionally, keeping bottles in closed case boxes further reduces light exposure, maintaining the beer's integrity until it is opened. In contrast, clear bottles allow significant light penetration, increasing the risk of skunking, particularly when stored in bright environments. Bottles stored under fluorescent lights are especially vulnerable, as these lights emit UV rays that can negatively impact the beer. Plastic containers are typically not used for longer-term storage of beer due to their permeability and the potential for light exposure, further increasing the risk of skunking. Thus, option A offers the best protection against skunking by keeping beer completely shielded from light.