Which types of containers are most effective at preventing skunking?

The most effective containers for preventing skunking are those that shield the beer from light exposure. Light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light, interacts with certain compounds in hops, resulting in the undesirable skunky flavor that can alter the quality of the beer. Kegs provide a solid barrier against light, as they are typically opaque and keep the beer from exposure. Tin cans also effectively block light, ensuring that the beer remains unaffected by external light sources. Additionally, any containers specifically designed to prevent light penetration will also help maintain the intended flavor profile of the beer.

Brown bottles and green bottles, while better than clear bottles, are not as effective as opaque containers in completely blocking out damaging light. Clear bottles, for example, offer no protection from light and are therefore the least effective at preventing skunking. All glass bottles, regardless of color, cannot provide the same protective barrier as kegs and cans. Thus, the combination of kegs and tin cans, along with any light-shielding containers, is ideal for maintaining the integrity of the beer.