7 United: Northeast India's First Handcrafted Canned Carbonated Rice Beer

7 United, the first handcrafted canned carbonated rice beer from the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, was launched by 25-year-old Keenan K Marak in 2022.

This unique beverage celebrates the traditional rice beer known as Bichi, made from indigenous white sticky rice and produced using traditional methods in special earthenware pots called diktom, which are smoked to impart a distinct flavor.

Keenan's journey began during the COVID-19 lockdown when he returned home to experiment with fruit wine alongside his mother. After initial setbacks, he sought guidance from local producers and incorporated their techniques into his process. To ensure quality, he decided to source rice beer from experienced locals, which also helped support their livelihoods.

With an initial investment of Rs 2 lakhs and a deep dive into the science of brewing, including pasteurization and acidity levels, Keenan faced challenges such as canning machine malfunctions, which he resolved through research and ingenuity.

The final product, 7 United, features a sleek white can adorned with artwork representing the northeast and boasts an alcohol content of under 11 percent. Since its debut, the beer has received positive responses at various events. In an interview with Business North East, Keenan acknowledged that there is still much work ahead to expand its reach, particularly into Guwahati, Assam.