What are the conversion ratios?

1kg grain = 0.6kg DME = 0.75kg LME (at ~75% mash efficiency). DME has ~45 PPG potential, LME ~36 PPG, and base grain ~37 PPG but you only extract about 75% of it.

Does this affect beer flavour?

Extract and all-grain beers can taste slightly different. Extract tends to produce a slightly darker colour and can have a "twang" if low quality. Fresh, light-coloured extract from a reputable supplier minimises these differences.

Can I use partial extract?

Yes. Many brewers do partial mash/extract brews. Convert only the grain portion you cannot mash. Keep specialty grains and steep them — only the base malt needs converting to extract.

Is DME or LME better for brewing?

DME (dry malt extract) has a longer shelf life, is easier to measure precisely, and is less likely to darken with age. LME (liquid malt extract) is easier to dissolve but can darken over time. For freshness and flexibility, DME is generally preferred.

Can I substitute specialty grain with extract?

Specialty grains like crystal, chocolate, and roasted malts should be steeped, not converted to extract. Only convert base malt to extract. Steeping specialty grains in hot water (65-75°C) for 30 minutes extracts their colour and flavour without needing a full mash.

BrewCalcs

Extract Substitution Calculator

Convert between all-grain, DME and LME with equivalent gravity contributions.

Weight

Conversion

How We Calculate This

Conversion Factors

Grain to DME: x 0.60 (DME is more concentrated)
Grain to LME: x 0.75 (LME contains ~20% water)
DME to LME: x 1.25 (LME has less extract per kg)

These ratios assume ~75% mash efficiency for grain. If your efficiency differs, adjust the grain weight accordingly before converting.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: 2025-02-20

All calculations are estimates. Always verify values and adjust based on your equipment and ingredients.