BABO blue at the innovation competition:

So blue: TUM students create a beer mixed beverage

What is so special about BABO blue?

Robin Stein: BABO blue is a shandy consisting of 60 percent beer and 40 percent lemonade, which we developed for the IGL competition. The unusual thing about it is the blue colour, for which we use a secret ingredient. Because the taste is supposed to match the colour, we opted for a dark or "blue" berry-flavour similar to blueberries and blackberries.

And how did you come up with the idea?

Stein: We collected various ideas for the competition. It had to be a new, innovative beverage. We deliberately aimed at creating a product that does not fit the ubiquitous “bio/organic”-trend – and we simply liked the idea of the blue beer mix best. Blue is an unusual and eye-catching colour for a drink. Moreover, it relates to positive feelings such as calmness or friendship, which many people also connect to beer.

Who is BABO blue primarily aimed at?

Stein: With its easy-going appearance, the low alcohol content and the sweet, fruity taste it is mainly aimed at youths and young adults. Thus, we also agreed on the name "Babo" (meaning “boss” or “leader” – the German youth word of 2013). The mix was definitely well received in our circle of friends. There are constant requests for more.

Why did you decide to brew the beer for BABO blue in "kölsch" style?

Stein: Cologne-style beers are top-fermented and have a light, fruity taste – which matches the berry flavour well. I always liked to drink Kölsch, because I am from Cologne myself. Also, it is currently quite popular among young people. In addition, it is typical for Cologne not to take oneself too seriously, which we thought would fit our unusual blue beer mix nicely.

How long did it take from the initial idea to actually producing the beverage?

Stein: The work for our first tentative recipe took only 2 to 3 months. Alongside our studies, that was quite exhausting at times, but – because of the competition – we could count on being supported by the university and industry partners who provided the raw materials, for example. Thanks to Josef Kimberger’s own small brewing equipment, we were able to brew the beer at home. Your creation BABO blue made it to the finals which will take place in mid-October.

What is still left to be done?

Stein: At the moment, we are still working on the final recipe. For example, there are still some issues with the final colour and we are currently working on the design of the bottles. That is innovative too, because the labels are not glued to the bottle, as usual, but printed directly. The bottles will be available in different colours and also with custom printing. Then, of course, we hope that BABO blue will eventually be available in the shops!

(Interview: Kerstin Hofmann)

BABO blue was created in the context of an innovation competition for food and beverages (Innovationswettbewerb für Getränke und Lebensmittel, IGL) at the Faculty for Brewing and Food Technology at the TUM’s WZW. Nine teams will be competing in the categories of beer, beer mixed beverages and non-alcoholic drinks until October 2014.

More information:
BABO blue on facebook
A film about BABO blue
IGL on facebook