MgS04 vs gypsum

[NBBC13]

Just wondering if people have experience using Magnesium sulfate to raise sulfates rather than gypsum (calcium sulfate)? I can get plenty of MgSO4 from work for free.

 

[Yooper]

Yes, you can do that. But keep the magnesium down to under about 25/26 ppm. Over that, it has a bit of a sour flavor impact, and at 40 ppm or more it can get quite disagreeable.

 

[ajdelange]

It's a dollar a pound so almost as cheap as free. But then it's almost half water.

 

[PADave]

Brewing salts cost so little, and used in such small amounts, that I wouldn't worry about switching things up just to save $.10. Mg at high levels is a laxative, just so you know.

 

[mabrungard]

Epsom salt is OK for adding sulfate, but you can't add too much before the magnesium content is excessive. I find that its useful in hop focused beers.

 

[dmtaylor]

Magnesium tastes like crap. Don't use much.

 

[NBBC13]

thanks everyone, useful stuff as usual