16 Best Organic Beer Brands in 2025 – Sustainable Brews Worth Tasting
- Valinda
- Jun 27
- 13 min read
Table of Contents
In a world where conscious consumption is gaining ground and sustainability is more than just a buzzword, the craft beer scene is no exception. Enter the realm of organic beer—a refreshing twist on the traditional pint that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also aligns with environmentally-friendly practices. From the fertile fields where hops and barley thrive without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers to the meticulous brewing process that prioritizes natural ingredients, organic beer embodies a commitment to quality, authenticity, and the well-being of our planet. Join us on a frothy exploration as we delve into the captivating world of organic beer, where every sip tells a story of sustainability and flavor innovation.
What Makes Beer Truly Organic?
Organic beer, much like its conventional counterpart, is a beverage crafted with passion and precision, but with a notable difference—it's brewed with ingredients cultivated through sustainable and environmentally-responsible methods. At its core, organic beer embodies a commitment to purity and quality, sourcing ingredients from farms that eschew synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms. From the rich malts to the aromatic hops, every element in organic beer is carefully selected and cultivated to adhere to strict organic standards, ensuring that each sip is not only a testament to flavor but also a celebration of ethical production practices. In a world where conscientious consumers seek products that resonate with their values, organic beer stands as a beacon of sustainability, offering a refreshing and flavorful alternative that leaves both the palate and the planet satisfied.
How is Organic Beer made
Crafting organic beer is a labor of love, beginning with the careful selection of premium organic ingredients. From the verdant fields where organic hops and barley are cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers to the pristine waters sourced from sustainable aquifers, every element of the brewing process is meticulously curated to ensure purity and environmental responsibility. Once these ingredients are gathered, skilled brewers work their magic, employing traditional brewing techniques coupled with modern innovations to coax out the rich flavors and aromas inherent in organic grains and hops. Fermentation, a crucial stage in beer production, is guided by the same dedication to organic principles, with yeast carefully cultivated and nurtured to create the perfect balance of flavors. The result? A pint of organic beer that not only tantalizes the taste buds with its complexity and depth but also reflects a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices from grain to glass.
Why Choose Organic Beer?
Organic beer offers a delightful array of benefits that extend beyond just the pleasure of savoring a well-crafted brew.
Environmental sustainability: Organic beer is brewed using ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, reducing harm to ecosystems and promoting soil health.
Healthier ingredients: Organic beer is made with organic grains and hops, which are free from chemical residues, potentially reducing health risks associated with pesticide exposure.
Supporting organic agriculture: By choosing organic beer, consumers support farmers who prioritize sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both the environment and public health.
Reduced water pollution: Organic farming methods typically involve less synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which can reduce runoff and water pollution in nearby bodies of water.
Enhanced biodiversity: Organic farms often support greater biodiversity, providing habitats for beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife.
Transparency and traceability: Organic certification ensures that strict standards are met throughout the production process, providing consumers with confidence in the integrity of the product.
Unique flavors: Organic beer may exhibit unique flavor profiles due to the use of organic ingredients, offering a distinct taste experience for beer enthusiasts.
Community support: Many organic breweries prioritize sourcing locally grown organic ingredients, supporting local farmers and fostering stronger connections within communities.
Reduced carbon footprint: Organic farming practices typically require less energy-intensive inputs, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional agriculture.
Promoting sustainable brewing practices: Choosing organic beer encourages breweries to adopt environmentally responsible practices throughout the brewing process, contributing to a more sustainable beer industry overall.
How to Identify Certified Organic Beer
Certification for organic beer typically follows guidelines set forth by various organizations and government agencies. While specific certification levels may vary depending on the country and the certifying body, here are some common levels of certification for organic beer:
Organic: Beer labeled as "organic" typically means that at least 95% of the ingredients used in the brewing process are certified organic. This includes organic grains, hops, and other adjuncts. The remaining 5% of ingredients must be approved by the certifying agency and cannot be produced using synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
Made with organic ingredients: Beer labeled as "made with organic ingredients" generally contains at least 70% organic ingredients. The remaining 30% of ingredients may not be certified organic but must still adhere to strict regulations regarding the use of synthetic substances.
Certified organic brewery: In addition to certifying individual beer products, breweries themselves can also achieve certification for their overall operations. This certification ensures that the brewery follows organic practices throughout its brewing process, including sourcing organic ingredients, maintaining organic integrity in brewing, and adhering to organic standards in packaging and labeling.
Biodynamic: While not specific to organic beer, some breweries may choose to follow biodynamic farming and brewing practices, which go beyond organic standards to incorporate holistic principles of agriculture and sustainability. Biodynamic certification involves rigorous standards for soil health, biodiversity, and the use of natural preparations in farming and brewing.
These certification levels provide consumers with assurance that the beer they are purchasing has been produced according to strict organic standards, promoting transparency and trust in the organic beer industry.
Organic Beer Certifications to Know
When you're shopping for organic beer, those little certification labels on the bottle actually matter — a lot. They tell you if the brewery truly follows organic standards or is just using trendy language. Here's what to look for and what each label really means:
USDA Organic (United States)
If you're in the U.S., this is the gold standard. A USDA Organic seal means that:
At least 95% of ingredients are certified organic
No synthetic fertilizers or pesticides are used
The yeast and hops must be grown under strict organic guidelines
Some breweries also carry the “Made with Organic Ingredients” label, which is a bit looser — only 70% of ingredients must be organic. Still better than nothing, but not fully organic.
Tip: If you're buying American organic beer, look for the USDA Organic seal for full certification.
EU Organic (Europe)
In Europe, the EU Organic logo (that green leaf with white stars) guarantees that:
95% or more of the ingredients are organic
No GMOs are used
Farming practices meet strict environmental standards
This certification applies to both the grains and hops, and often includes sustainable packaging requirements too. You'll often see this label on organic beers from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Biodynamic Certification (Demeter)
Some niche breweries go even further with biodynamic brewing, certified by Demeter. This approach treats the entire brewing process — from soil to bottling — as part of a self-sustaining ecosystem. It's a bit spiritual, a bit scientific.
Demeter-certified beers are rare, but if you find one, expect a unique, earthy flavor and deep respect for the land.
B Corp / Sustainability Certifications
While not “organic” per se, certifications like B Corp, CarbonNeutral, or 1% for the Planet show the brewery’s commitment to ethical business and sustainability.
If you see these on an organic beer, it means they’re thinking beyond ingredients — from fair labor to carbon offsetting.
Quick Summary: Which Labels to Trust?
Label | Region | Organic % Required | What It Covers |
USDA Organic | USA | 95%+ | Ingredients, farming |
Made with Organic Ingredients | USA | 70%+ | Partial organic |
EU Organic | EU | 95%+ | Ingredients, environment |
Demeter | Global | Varies | Biodynamic practices |
B Corp / CarbonNeutral | Global | N/A | Sustainability, ethics |
Bottom line? Don’t just grab the first bottle with “organic” on the label. Look for these certifications so you know you’re actually drinking a beer that aligns with your values — and not just clever marketing.
16 Best Organic Beer Brands in 2025
Samuel Smith’s
A historic independent brewery founded in 1758 in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, Samuel Smith’s is one of the UK’s oldest and most respected breweries. Known for its heritage, simplicity, and quality, the brewery offers a wide range of traditional and specialty beers — all brewed with time-honored methods.
Type of beer: Bitters, porters, stouts, lagers, and fruit beers (such as organic raspberry or cherry ale)
Certifications: Many of their beers are certified organic and labeled as such, particularly their fruit ales and lagers.
Sustainability practices
Uses organic ingredients in several brews
Bottled in recyclable brown glass
Delivery by horse-drawn dray carts in local areas to reduce fuel use
Traditional brewing with stone Yorkshire squares and local well water
Eel River
Eel River Brewing is known as America’s first certified organic brewery, setting the standard for eco-conscious craft beer. They combine bold flavor with a commitment to sustainable brewing practices.
Type of beer: Wide range including Organic Amber Ale (caramel & toffee notes) and Emerald Triangle IPA, a bold West Coast-style IPA.
Certifications:
USDA Organic
Non-GMO Project Verified
Sustainability practices:
Uses 100% organic ingredients
Employs environmentally friendly brewing methods
Focuses on authenticity and transparency in every step of production
Michelob
A light, crisp beer crafted for health-conscious drinkers who want fewer calories without sacrificing taste. Brewed by Anheuser-Busch (makers of Budweiser), it’s positioned as a cleaner alternative to traditional light beers.
Type of beer: Organic-inspired American-style light lager
Certifications: No official organic certification, but brewed with organic grains
Sustainability practices: Focused on ingredient transparency and clean-label brewing, using no artificial additives. Marketed toward active lifestyles with low calories (85 per bottle) and only 2.5g of carbs.
Warfield
Located in the scenic mountain town of Ketchum, Idaho, Warfield Distillery & Brewery is known for combining traditional brewing with a modern organic twist. Since 2015, they’ve become a local favorite for craft beer and spirits made with certified organic ingredients.
Type of beer: A rotating lineup of organic brews, including lagers, IPAs, and seasonal specialties. Their portfolio is complemented by small-batch organic gin and whiskey.
Certifications: Certified Organic (for both beer and spirits)
Sustainability practices: Warfield emphasizes quality over quantity, using only organic grains and botanicals in both brewing and distilling. Their 2020 expansion introduced energy-efficient equipment, a larger production facility, and an eco-conscious tasting room. All beers are brewed onsite and served alongside farm-to-table gastropub fare, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.
Tremor California
Tremor California is a pioneering craft brewery located in Sonoma County, known for reimagining what a light lager can be. With deep roots in local farming and brewing traditions, Tremor brings the true spirit of California into every bottle.
Type of beer: Light lager – crisp, effervescent, and full of flavor with a smooth, refreshing finish.
Certifications: Uses 100% certified organic barley and organic West Coast hops. While not explicitly USDA or EU certified, their ingredients meet organic standards.
Sustainability practices
Barley sourced from local, organic California farms
Malted by nearby artisan craft maltsters
Brewed in a small, independent, American-owned facility
Dedicated to sustainable brewing methods and local supply chains
Maui Brewing
Hawaii’s largest craft brewery, Maui Brewing Company is known for its bold, tropical-inspired beers and commitment to sustainability. Since its start in 2005 as a small brewpub in Kahana, the brand has grown into a leader in the organic craft beer scene.
Type of beer: Flagship brews include the Big Swell IPA, Bikini Blonde Lager, and fruit-forward varieties using coconut, pineapple, and passion fruit–orange–guava (POG) blends.
Certifications: While not USDA Organic certified, Maui Brewing emphasizes natural ingredients and clean brewing processes. Their facility is grid-independent, powered by solar energy and biodiesel.
Sustainability practices
100% powered by renewable energy at their Kihei facility
Recycles heat, water, and CO₂ during brewing
Uses local ingredients when possible
Partnered with a mainland brewery (2022) to reduce shipping emissions and expand sustainably
Lakefront
Lakefront Brewery, based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is known for its small-batch craft beers that combine traditional brewing methods with modern creativity. The brewery offers a wide variety of unique flavors made with locally sourced ingredients.
Type of beer: Amber lager, dark lager, gluten-free options
Certifications: Certified B Corporation
Sustainability practices: Lakefront Brewery emphasizes sustainability through ethical sourcing, local ingredient use, and environmentally responsible brewing. Their B Corp status reflects their broader commitment to community, employee welfare, and environmental impact.
New Belgium Brewing
One of the most recognized names in American craft beer, New Belgium Brewing is known for combining great taste with a deep commitment to sustainability. Their iconic Fat Tire Amber Ale is not only flavorful — it was the first certified carbon-neutral beer in the U.S.
Type of beer: Amber Ale (Fat Tire), IPAs (Voodoo Ranger), and a wide craft beer selection.
Certifications
Carbon Neutral Certified (Fat Tire)
Certified B Corporation
Member of 1% for the Planet
Sustainability practices
Fat Tire became carbon-neutral in 2020, with a goal to make all beers carbon-neutral by 2030
Uses lightweight, eco-friendly packaging
Conducts regular equity audits and supports LGBTQ+ inclusion
Promotes bike-to-work programs and donates to environmental initiatives
Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada is one of the most recognizable names in American craft beer, known not just for its bold flavors but also for its deep commitment to sustainability. With their signature green cans and pioneering practices, they’ve set the standard for eco-conscious brewing.
Type of beer: Organic pale ales, IPAs, and seasonal limited releases, including non-alcoholic options.
Certifications: USDA Organic (select ingredients), LEED Certified (North Carolina facility), B Corp–level sustainability standards (unofficial).
Sustainability practices:
Operates the largest solar power array in the craft beer industry (Chico, CA)
First LEED-certified production brewery in the U.S. (Mills River, NC)
On-site water recycling and energy recovery systems
Composting spent grain and maintaining organic-certified hops and barley
Invests in regenerative farming and rotational organic crops
Upslope
Based in Boulder, Colorado, Upslope Brewing combines craft beer excellence with a deep commitment to sustainability and community impact.
Type of beer: Offers a wide range of styles, including classic IPAs, sour ales like Blackberry Lemon Sour, and seasonal favorites such as Pumpkin Ale brewed with organic baby bear pumpkins.
Certifications
B Corp Certified
Uses USDA-certified organic ingredients in select brews
Sustainability practices
Packages all beer in lightweight, recyclable aluminum cans to reduce shipping emissions
Uses 100% recycled cardboard for outer packaging
Invests in solar energy and water conservation systems
Hosts zero waste events
Supports over 175 nonprofits annually
Offers employees paid volunteer time and homebuyer assistance programs
Peak Organic
Peak Organic Brewing Co., based in Portland, Maine, is a pioneer in combining craft beer with a deep commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.
Type of beer: A variety of organic styles including amber ale, IPA, and hard seltzer. Notably, their Organic IPA features Simcoe, Amarillo, and Nugget hops for a bold, aromatic profile.
Certifications: USDA Organic
Sustainability practices
Uses locally sourced, organic ingredients from small-scale farmers
Focuses on ethical production and community support
Prioritizes quality over mass production to reduce environmental impact
Pure Project
A standout in San Diego’s thriving craft beer scene, Pure Project is known for its dedication to transparency, sustainability, and high-quality brewing. Originally founded in Costa Rica as “Pura Vida” in 2014, the brewery soon relocated to California and rebranded as Pure Project to reflect its unwavering commitment to purity and innovation.
Type of beer: A diverse lineup including hop-forward IPAs, smooth barrel-aged stouts, and seasonal limited editions.
Certifications: Uses certified organic ingredients; works with biodynamic farmers. While not USDA certified, their sourcing practices meet or exceed organic standards.
Sustainability practices: Pure Project emphasizes transparency at every step — from ingredient sourcing to production. They partner with organic and biodynamic growers, prioritize local ingredients, and maintain low-waste operations. Their eco-conscious ethos extends to packaging and community-driven initiatives.
Great Lakes
Located along the shores of Lake Erie in Cleveland, Ohio, Great Lakes Brewing Company is known for its flavorful craft beers and unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Type of beer: Craft brews including seasonal ales, lagers, porters, and year-round favorites like Dortmunder Gold and Edmund Fitzgerald Porter.
Certifications: While not USDA Organic certified, the brewery emphasizes transparency and supports ethical sourcing and local ingredient use.
Sustainability practices:
Partners with local farmers and community-focused organizations
Offers discounts for customers who bring refillable growlers (zero-waste refills)
Repurposes spent grain as livestock feed and soil additive
Reuses low-fill beer in sauces, sausage, soup, and even soap
Reduces water usage and uses solar energy to power brewery operations
Maintains an on-site pub with eco-conscious practices and community engagement
With its focus on circular economy solutions and community-driven ethics, Great Lakes Brewing Company proves that great beer can come with an even better mission.
Pinkus
A historic German brewery founded in 1816, Pinkus-Müller is one of the pioneers in organic beer. With over two centuries of brewing experience, they combine traditional craftsmanship with a deep commitment to purity and sustainability.
Type of beer: Classic German styles including crisp Pilsners, smooth lagers, and rich Münster Alt.
Certifications: USDA-accredited organic certification; brewed according to the German Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot).
Sustainability practices: Pinkus-Müller uses only four pure ingredients — water, malted barley, hops, and yeast — with no additives or chemicals. Their production process honors centuries-old methods while minimizing environmental impact through clean ingredient sourcing and responsible brewing.
Green’s Glutenfree
Green’s is a pioneering brewery dedicated to crafting high-quality beers for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Their lineup features a wide variety of flavorful brews made without barley or wheat.
Type of beer: A diverse range including lagers, amber ales, dubbel ales, and dry-hopped varieties. Standouts include the Endeavour Dubbel Ale (rich and malty with caramel notes) and the Discovery Amber Ale (balanced with toasty malt and hop bitterness).
Certifications: Naturally gluten-free (crafted without barley or wheat). While not USDA Organic, Green’s follows strict gluten-free brewing standards and testing procedures.
Sustainability practices: Green’s uses alternative grains like millet, buckwheat, rice, and sorghum, which often require less intensive farming than traditional barley. The brewery also controls its brewing process closely to prevent cross-contamination and reduce waste.
Athletic Organic
Athletic Brewing Company, founded in 2017 by ultramarathon runner Bill Shufelt and brewmaster John Walker, is a pioneer in the world of non-alcoholic craft beer. Dissatisfied with bland alcohol-free options, they set out to create full-flavor brews with less than 0.5% ABV — and succeeded spectacularly. Within a few years, Athletic Brewing grew from a niche experiment into a globally recognized brand.
Type of beer: Non-alcoholic IPAs, golden ales, stouts, and seasonal brews — all crafted to retain the full craft beer experience without the alcohol.
Certifications
Certified B Corporation
USDA Organic (select ingredients in some brews)
Non-GMO Project Verified (select brews)
Sustainability practices: Athletic Brewing is deeply committed to sustainability and social impact. The company donates 2% of all sales to environmental nonprofits, operates a solar-powered brewing facility in Connecticut, and focuses on water and energy efficiency. They also prioritize ethical sourcing and eco-conscious packaging.
FAQ About Organic Beer
Curious about what makes organic beer different from the rest? You're not alone. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about organic beer, answered clearly and honestly.
Is organic beer healthier than regular beer?
Organic beer may not turn it into a health drink, but it can be a cleaner option. Since it's brewed with organically grown ingredients, it typically avoids synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and artificial additives. That means fewer unwanted chemicals in your glass. For many, it’s a more natural choice — especially if you're already buying organic food.
Does organic beer taste different?
Not necessarily — but many people do notice a difference. Organic beers are often brewed in small batches by craft brewers who focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional methods. This can result in a fresher, richer, and more complex flavor compared to mass-produced beer. So while the organic label doesn’t guarantee a better taste, it often comes with a higher brewing standard.
Is all craft beer organic?
No, not all craft beer is organic — and many aren't even close. While craft brewers often care deeply about quality and flavor, only those who follow organic farming and brewing practices (and are certified) can legally call their beer "organic." If you're unsure, check for certifications like USDA Organic or EU Organic on the label.
Is organic beer gluten-free?
Organic doesn’t mean gluten-free. Most beers — organic or not — are made with barley, wheat, or rye, which all contain gluten. However, some breweries do offer organic gluten-free beer made from alternatives like sorghum, millet, or rice. Always check the label if you're sensitive to gluten.
Does organic beer have alcohol in it?
Yes — organic beer contains alcohol just like conventional beer. The “organic” label refers to the farming and production methods, not the alcohol content. You can, however, find organic non-alcoholic beers too — perfect if you're cutting back but still want the craft beer experience.
