What are the four main ingredients in beer?

The four main ingredients in beer are malt, hops, yeast, and water, which come together to create the fundamental structure and flavor of the beverage.

Malt provides the sugars necessary for fermentation, which yeast then converts into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Different types of malt can contribute varying colors, flavors, and aromas to the beer. Hops are used to add bitterness and aroma, balancing the sweetness of the malt and contributing to the overall flavor profile as well as acting as a natural preservative. Yeast is vital for fermentation, with different strains imparting unique characteristics to the beer. Finally, water is the primary component of beer, affecting its overall taste, mouthfeel, and quality.

The other options include ingredients that may be used in brewing but do not represent the core components essential for all beers. For example, sugar might be added in some recipes, but it is not a fundamental ingredient like malt or hops. Spices or flavoring agents could enhance a brew but are not universally found in all beers, nor do they constitute the basic formula.