Abstract: The invention relates to methods for preparing a beverage comprising at least 2 g/L ?-glucan, wherein said ?-glucans have an average molecular weight in the range of 80 to 200 kDa. The methods involve mashing barley kernels comprising at least 10% ?-glucans and having a ratio of DP3/DP4 in said ?-glucan of at least 3 in the presence of ?-amylase and endo-1,3(4)-?-glucanase activity. The beverages have a viscosity providing a good mouth-feel, and at the same time they comprise ?-glucans, which are able to aid in lowering LDL cholesterol levels. The beverages are generally stable and can be stored for months at room temperature without a significant decrease in ?-glucan content.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of beverages or beverage bases, in particular to the field of health beverages. The beverage or beverage base is produced by preparing an aqueous extract of unmalted cereal grains. Fermenting the aqueous extract by cold contact fermentation and/or with inactivated yeast to obtain a fermented aqueous extract. The aqueous extract or fermented aqueous extract is then mixed with a juice, to obtain an alcohol free or low alcohol beverage or beverage base with desirable ingredients.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for preparing a beverage comprising at least 2 g/L ?-glucan, wherein said ?-glucans have an average molecular weight in the range of 80 to 200 kDa. The methods involve mashing barley kernels comprising at least 10% ?-glucans and having a ratio of DP3/DP4 in said ?-glucan of at least 3 in the presence of ?-amylase and endo-1,3(4)-?-glucanase activity. The beverages have a viscosity providing a good mouth-feel, and at the same time they comprise ?-glucans, which are able to aid in lowering LDL cholesterol levels. The beverages are generally stable and can be stored for months at room temperature without a significant decrease in ?-glucan content.