ISOHUMULONES*

Abstract

Isomerization of humulone in wort or in buffer solution produces a mixture of two pairs of stereoisomers, which are named following a nomenclature based on the humulinic acid series, isohumulone A (melting point 62° C.) and isohumulone B (an oil) are formed in the largest amounts. The second pair is present in smaller quantities (e.g., 4.5–8%) and comprises alloisohumulone A and allisohumulone B.