To Squeeze or Not to Squeeze?

[ProfessorBrew]

In preparation for my first BIAB all-grain brew, I've been reading the HBT forums for tips. I've seen a lot of BIAB brewers recommend squeezing the bag. But when I've done partian mash brews, the ingredients always say to not squeeze the bag. Thoughts, everyone?

 

[cincydave]

Definately two schools of thought on this. I'm a squeezer and have not seen any ill effects.

 

[iijakii]

Just remember if you squeeze more than twice you're playing with it.

 

[phoenixs4r]

Most old school methodology refers to squeezing if grain as bad, I've read about it mostly releasing tannins.

New school methodology has to do with PH and temperature releasing tannins. Its still baked into a lot of kit instructions because they aren't revised very often.

 

[beergolf]

Squeeze away....

It justs help get all the goodness out. No fear....

 

[solbes]

Squeeze away +1. Its hot to the touch though. I've switched to "pressing" the bag with a saucepan lid.

 

[BetterSense]

I have big 'mad scientist' gloves (actually dishwashing gloves) that I got at a restaurant supply store, which I use to squeeze the bag. Today I brewed an IPA using 14 pounds of grain, and only lost 1/2 gallon of water to grain absorption. That's like .04 gallons per pound of grain.

 

[bobbrews]

I'm all for dunking, rinsing, steeping, and draining... but not squeezing.

 

[kh54s10]

Squeeze the heck out of the bag. Why leave all that goodness behind.

But it is a PITA! and HOT!

I will only do smaller experimental BIAB batches because, to me, messing with a dripping, hot, heavy bag of grain is such a PITA.

 

[solbes]

Fryer basket suspended from a pulley on garage roof + saucepan lid = Easy peasy in my book. Much quicker than traditional fly sparge and less equipment to buy/clean.

 

[daksin]

Squeeze + Single batch sparge in a second pot (doesn't have to be big) = great efficiency with no extra effort