1. What are the key regulatory requirements for opening a microbrewery in Texas?
To open a microbrewery in Texas, there are several key regulatory requirements that must be met:
1. Obtaining a Brewer’s Notice: The first step is to apply for a Brewer’s Notice from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), which allows you to produce beer for commercial purposes.
2. State Licensing: In Texas, you need to obtain a Brewer’s Permit from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). This permit allows you to manufacture, distribute, and sell beer within the state.
3. Local Permits: Many cities and counties in Texas also require microbreweries to obtain local permits and licenses to operate within their jurisdiction.
4. Complying with Tax Regulations: Microbreweries are subject to state and federal taxes on beer production and sales. Ensuring compliance with tax regulations is essential to avoid penalties.
5. Health and Safety Regulations: Microbreweries must adhere to health and safety standards set by the TTB and local health departments to ensure the quality and safety of the beer produced.
6. Labeling and Advertising Requirements: Beer labels must comply with TTB regulations regarding alcohol content, health warnings, and other labeling requirements. Additionally, advertising of alcoholic beverages is regulated to prevent misleading claims or targeting minors.
By meeting these key regulatory requirements, aspiring microbrewery owners can establish a legal and compliant operation in Texas.
2. How has the craft beer industry evolved in Texas over the past decade?
1. Over the past decade, the craft beer industry in Texas has experienced significant growth and evolution. One key development has been the increasing number of microbreweries and brewpubs opening across the state. This rise in craft beer establishments has led to a more diverse and vibrant craft beer scene in Texas, with a wider variety of beer styles and flavors available to consumers.
2. The legislative landscape has also shifted in favor of craft breweries in Texas. Laws have been passed to allow for direct sales to consumers at breweries, as well as the ability to sell beer to-go. These changes have helped small breweries thrive and connect more directly with their customer base.
3. Collaboration and innovation have become hallmarks of the Texas craft beer industry. Breweries are increasingly working together on special releases and events, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among craft beer enthusiasts. Additionally, Texas brewers have been experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques, pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles and creating new and exciting flavor profiles.
4. Overall, the craft beer industry in Texas has evolved into a dynamic and thriving sector of the state’s economy. With a growing number of breweries, supportive legislation, and a spirit of collaboration and innovation, the future looks bright for craft beer in the Lone Star State.
3. What unique ingredients sourced locally in Texas are popular among craft brewers?
In Texas, craft brewers often use a variety of unique local ingredients to create distinct and flavorful beers. Some popular ingredients sourced locally in Texas that are frequently utilized by craft brewers include:
1. Pecans: Texas is known for its abundance of pecan trees, and many brewers incorporate roasted or toasted pecans into their beers to add a nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile.
2. Prickly Pear: The prickly pear cactus, native to Texas, provides a unique ingredient for craft brewers. Prickly pear fruit can be used to infuse a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor into beers, particularly sour styles.
3. Mesquite: Mesquite wood or smoked mesquite beans are often used by brewers to impart a subtle smoky and slightly sweet flavor characteristic of Texas barbecue into their beers, particularly in smoked porters or stouts.
Craft brewers in Texas take advantage of these and other locally sourced ingredients to create beers that reflect the flavors and spirit of the Lone Star State.
4. How do Texas craft breweries contribute to the local economy and tourism?
Texas craft breweries play a significant role in contributing to the local economy and boosting tourism in the region. Here are several ways in which they have a positive impact:
1. Job Creation: Craft breweries in Texas create numerous job opportunities, ranging from brewers and tasting room staff to sales and marketing positions. This not only provides employment but also contributes to the overall economic growth of the area.
2. Tourism Attraction: Craft breweries have become popular attractions for both locals and tourists alike. Visitors are drawn to the unique beer offerings, brewery tours, and tasting experiences, which in turn boosts tourism in the region. Many craft breweries also collaborate with local businesses such as restaurants and hotels, further enhancing the overall visitor experience.
3. Local Sourcing: Texas craft breweries often source their ingredients locally, supporting local farmers and businesses in the process. This helps to stimulate the local economy by creating a network of interconnected industries that all benefit from the success of craft beer production.
4. Community Engagement: Craft breweries frequently engage with their local communities through various events, fundraisers, and collaborations with other businesses. This fosters a sense of community pride and involvement, further strengthening the local economy and attracting visitors who are interested in supporting these community-focused establishments.
Overall, Texas craft breweries play a vital role in driving economic growth, fostering tourism, and enhancing the overall quality of life in the region.
5. What are some of the recent trends in craft beer consumption in Texas?
1. One of the recent trends in craft beer consumption in Texas is the continued growth of the industry. Texas has a rapidly expanding craft beer market with a growing number of breweries opening across the state. Consumers in Texas are increasingly interested in supporting local businesses and trying unique, locally brewed beers.
2. Another trend in craft beer consumption in Texas is the rise of brewery taprooms and brewpubs. Many craft breweries in Texas are now focusing on creating welcoming spaces for visitors to enjoy their beers on site. This trend has led to an increase in brewery tours, tastings, and events, providing beer enthusiasts with the opportunity to engage directly with the brewing process.
3. Craft beer collaborations are also becoming popular in Texas, with breweries teaming up to create unique and innovative beers. These collaborations often bring together different brewing styles and ingredients, resulting in limited edition releases that generate excitement among consumers and showcase the creativity of the Texas craft beer scene.
4. Additionally, there is a growing interest in craft beer education and appreciation in Texas. Beer festivals, tasting events, and beer education classes are becoming more prevalent, allowing consumers to deepen their knowledge of different beer styles, brewing techniques, and flavor profiles. This trend indicates a maturing consumer base that is eager to learn more about the craft beer industry.
5. Lastly, the demand for variety and experimentation in craft beer is influencing consumption trends in Texas. Breweries are increasingly focusing on producing a wider range of beer styles, including sour ales, barrel-aged beers, and hazy IPAs. Texas beer drinkers are embracing this diversity and seeking out new and innovative brews to expand their palate and experience the full spectrum of craft beer offerings available in the state.
6. How has the craft beer scene in Texas influenced the national beer market?
The craft beer scene in Texas has had a significant influence on the national beer market in several ways:
1. Innovation: Texas craft breweries have been at the forefront of innovation in the industry, introducing unique flavors, brewing techniques, and styles that have inspired brewers across the country to push the boundaries of traditional beer-making.
2. Growth: The rapid growth of the craft beer market in Texas has attracted national attention, with many breweries expanding their distribution beyond the state. This growth has contributed to the overall expansion of the craft beer market nationally.
3. Collaboration: Texas brewers have fostered a strong spirit of collaboration within the industry, often partnering with other breweries both within the state and across the country. This emphasis on collaboration has helped to create a sense of community and shared knowledge that has been beneficial for the entire craft beer market.
4. Consumer Preferences: The popularity of Texas craft beers among consumers has influenced national trends in beer drinking preferences. Texas breweries have played a role in shaping consumer tastes and driving demand for more flavorful and diverse beer options.
Overall, the craft beer scene in Texas has made a significant impact on the national beer market by setting trends, fostering innovation, and creating a sense of community that has resonated with beer lovers across the country.
7. What are some of the popular beer festivals hosted in Texas by local breweries?
In Texas, there are several popular beer festivals hosted by local breweries that attract craft beer enthusiasts from all over the state and beyond. Some of the notable beer festivals in Texas include:
1. Texas Craft Brewers Festival: This annual festival in Austin showcases the best of Texas craft beer with over 70 breweries participating. It features a wide range of beer styles, food trucks, live music, and educational events.
2. Big Texas Beer Fest: Held in Dallas, this festival celebrates the diversity of craft beer with over 100 breweries showcasing their offerings. Attendees can sample a variety of beers, enjoy live music, and participate in beer-related activities.
3. Houston Firkin Fest: This festival in Houston focuses on cask-conditioned ales, known as firkins, which are often unique and experimental brews. It allows beer lovers to experience traditional English-style ales in a festival setting.
4. San Antonio Beer Festival: This annual event in San Antonio features a wide selection of local and national craft breweries, along with food vendors and live entertainment. It is one of the largest beer festivals in Texas, attracting thousands of attendees.
These festivals provide beer enthusiasts with an opportunity to taste a wide variety of craft beers, interact with brewers, and immerse themselves in the vibrant beer culture of Texas.
8. What are the licensing procedures for starting a brewpub in Texas?
To start a brewpub in Texas, you need to follow specific licensing procedures mandated by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Here are the key steps to obtain the necessary permits and licenses:
1. Brewer’s Permit: You need to apply for a Brewer’s Permit from the TABC. This permit allows you to manufacture and sell beer on your premises.
2. Food and Beverage Certificate: Since a brewpub serves food along with beer, you are required to hold a Food and Beverage Certificate from the TABC.
3. Federal Brewer’s Notice: You must obtain a Brewer’s Notice from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), which is a federal requirement for breweries.
4. Local Permits: Check with your local city or county government for any additional permits required to operate a brewpub in your specific location.
5. Health Department Approval: Ensure that your brewpub meets all health and safety regulations set by the local health department.
It is crucial to thoroughly research and comply with all licensing and permit requirements to legally operate a brewpub in Texas. Consulting with legal experts or industry professionals can also help navigate the licensing procedures efficiently.
9. What brewing techniques are commonly used by craft breweries in Texas?
Craft breweries in Texas commonly use a variety of brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful beers that cater to the diverse preferences of consumers. Some of the techniques commonly employed include:
1. All-grain brewing: Many craft breweries in Texas choose to brew using all-grain methods, which involves mashing malted barley with hot water to extract fermentable sugars. This process allows brewers to have greater control over the flavors and characteristics of the beer.
2. Hop additions: Craft brewers in Texas often use a variety of hop additions during the brewing process to impart bitterness, flavor, and aroma to their beers. Techniques such as dry hopping, whirlpool hopping, and late hop additions are commonly utilized to achieve the desired hop profile.
3. Yeast selection: Yeast plays a crucial role in shaping the final flavor and aroma of beer. Craft breweries in Texas carefully select yeast strains based on the style of beer they are producing, whether it be traditional ale yeasts, lager yeasts, or various wild and funky yeast strains for sour beers.
4. Barrel aging: Barrel aging is a popular technique among craft breweries in Texas, with many utilizing bourbon, wine, or spirit barrels to age their beers. This process imparts unique flavors and complexities to the beer, creating rich and nuanced brews.
5. Souring techniques: Some craft breweries in Texas specialize in producing sour beers using mixed fermentation techniques with bacteria and wild yeast strains. This results in tart, complex, and often funky flavor profiles that have gained popularity among beer enthusiasts.
Overall, craft breweries in Texas are known for their innovative approach to brewing, constantly experimenting with techniques to push the boundaries of traditional beer styles and create exciting and distinctive brews for consumers to enjoy.
10. How do craft breweries in Texas prioritize sustainability and environmental practices?
Craft breweries in Texas prioritize sustainability and environmental practices in various ways to reduce their impact on the environment and operate more responsibly. Some of the key ways they do this include:
1. Utilizing energy-efficient equipment and practices, such as LED lighting, high-efficiency boilers, and heat recovery systems to minimize energy consumption.
2. Implementing water-saving measures, such as recycling, reusing water in different stages of the brewing process, and investing in water-efficient technologies.
3. Partnering with local farms to repurpose spent grain as animal feed or compost, reducing waste sent to landfills.
4. Using eco-friendly packaging materials, such as recyclable cans or biodegradable packaging, to reduce plastic waste.
5. Implementing recycling programs for glass, cardboard, and other materials used in the brewing and packaging processes.
6. Supporting local suppliers and farmers to reduce their carbon footprint associated with transportation and support the local economy.
7. Participating in community clean-up initiatives or organizing events to raise awareness about environmental issues and sustainability practices among consumers.
8. Seeking certifications like the Brewers Association’s Independent Craft Brewer Seal or sustainable brewing certifications to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability to consumers.
9. Regularly evaluating and improving their sustainability practices through audits, assessments, and setting specific sustainability goals for continuous improvement.
10. Engaging in collaborations and knowledge-sharing with other breweries, industry organizations, and environmental groups to exchange best practices and drive collective action towards a more sustainable brewing industry in Texas.
11. What partnerships exist between Texas breweries and local agriculture or farmers?
1. Texas breweries have been increasingly collaborating with local agriculture and farmers to source ingredients for their craft beers, fostering a closer connection between the brewing industry and the local farming community. These partnerships not only support the local economy but also promote sustainability and the use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients in beer production.
2. One notable partnership is between Jester King Brewery in Austin, Texas and Barton Springs Mill, a local stone-mill operation that provides freshly milled grains for brewing. This collaboration allows Jester King to create unique brews using locally grown and milled grains, showcasing the terroir of the region in their beers.
3. Another example is the collaboration between Austin Beerworks and Blacklands Malt, a Texas-based craft malt house. By sourcing malt locally, Austin Beerworks supports small-scale agriculture and reduces their carbon footprint by minimizing the transportation of ingredients.
4. Real Ale Brewing Company in Blanco, Texas has a longstanding commitment to using Texas-grown barley in their beers. They work closely with local farmers to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality barley for their brewing operations.
5. Community Beer Company in Dallas partners with local fruit growers to incorporate fresh fruits into their seasonal and specialty beers. By working directly with farmers, they are able to experiment with different fruit varieties and create unique flavor profiles in their brews.
Overall, these partnerships between Texas breweries and local agriculture demonstrate a growing trend towards sustainability, supporting local farmers, and creating beers that reflect the unique flavors of the region.
12. How do beer excise taxes impact the growth of microbreweries in Texas?
Beer excise taxes can have a significant impact on the growth of microbreweries in Texas. These taxes are typically imposed on beer producers based on the volume of beer they produce. Higher excise taxes can lead to increased production costs for microbreweries, which can in turn affect their ability to compete with larger breweries. This can limit the growth opportunities for microbreweries in the state.
1. Higher excise taxes may result in increased prices for consumers, which can make craft beer less attractive and impact overall demand for microbrewery products.
2. Microbreweries often operate on thin profit margins, and higher excise taxes can further squeeze their profitability, limiting their ability to invest in expansion, innovation, or marketing efforts.
3. In contrast, lower excise taxes can provide a more favorable operating environment for microbreweries, allowing them to thrive, expand their operations, and contribute to the local economy through job creation and tourism.
In conclusion, the impact of beer excise taxes on the growth of microbreweries in Texas is significant, as these taxes can directly affect the cost of doing business for small craft breweries. Policymakers and industry stakeholders should consider the potential effects of excise tax policies on the growth and sustainability of the craft beer industry in the state.
13. What are some challenges faced by small craft breweries in Texas when entering the market?
One of the main challenges faced by small craft breweries in Texas when entering the market is the competitive landscape. Texas has seen a significant growth in the craft beer industry over the past decade, resulting in a crowded market with many established players. This can make it difficult for new breweries to stand out and capture market share.
Another challenge is the state’s complex regulatory environment. Texas has strict alcohol laws and regulations that can be difficult for small breweries to navigate. This includes restrictions on distribution, licensing requirements, and tax regulations which can increase the cost of doing business.
Access to capital is also a common challenge for small craft breweries in Texas. Starting and operating a brewery requires a significant amount of capital investment, from equipment and ingredient costs to marketing and distribution expenses. Securing funding can be difficult, especially for new entrants in a competitive market.
Furthermore, establishing brand recognition and building a loyal customer base can be challenging for small craft breweries in Texas. With so many options available to consumers, breaking through the noise and effectively marketing their products can be a struggle for new breweries.
Overall, while the craft beer industry in Texas offers great opportunities for small breweries, entering the market comes with its own set of challenges that require careful planning, resources, and strategic decision-making.
14. How do craft breweries in Texas differentiate themselves in a competitive industry?
Craft breweries in Texas differentiate themselves in a competitive industry in several key ways:
1. Unique Flavor Profiles: Craft breweries in Texas often focus on creating distinct and innovative flavor profiles in their beers. This could involve using locally sourced ingredients, experimenting with different hops and malts, or incorporating unique brewing techniques to stand out from the competition.
2. Local and Community Involvement: Many craft breweries in Texas emphasize their ties to the local community by supporting local events, collaborating with other businesses, and sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and suppliers. This helps create a sense of authenticity and connection that sets them apart in a crowded market.
3. Creative Branding and Marketing: Craft breweries in Texas often invest in creative branding and marketing strategies to differentiate themselves. This could involve eye-catching label designs, engaging social media campaigns, or unique events and collaborations that help capture consumer attention and loyalty.
4. Emphasis on Quality and Sustainability: Craft breweries in Texas differentiate themselves by prioritizing quality and sustainability in their brewing processes. This could involve using organic ingredients, implementing eco-friendly practices, or focusing on small-batch production to ensure high-quality products that appeal to discerning consumers.
Overall, craft breweries in Texas differentiate themselves in a competitive industry by focusing on innovation, community engagement, branding, quality, and sustainability to carve out a unique niche in the market.
15. What role do local craft beer associations play in promoting Texas breweries?
Local craft beer associations play a crucial role in promoting Texas breweries in several ways:
1. Networking and Collaboration: Craft beer associations provide a platform for Texas breweries to connect, collaborate, and share resources. This networking helps breweries learn from each other, form partnerships, and collectively promote the local craft beer scene.
2. Marketing and Promotion: Local craft beer associations often organize events, festivals, and tasting sessions to showcase Texas breweries to a wider audience. They also engage in marketing campaigns to raise awareness about the diverse range of craft beers brewed in the state.
3. Advocacy and Education: These associations advocate for favorable legislative policies that support the growth of craft breweries in Texas. They also provide educational opportunities for brewers to enhance their skills and knowledge, ensuring the quality and innovation of local craft beer.
4. Community Engagement: Craft beer associations strengthen the bond between breweries and the local community by organizing brewery tours, tasting events, and other activities that foster a sense of belonging and pride in Texas-made craft beers.
Overall, local craft beer associations play a pivotal role in creating a supportive ecosystem that nurtures the growth and success of Texas breweries, ultimately contributing to the vibrant and thriving craft beer industry in the state.
16. How has the craft beer culture in Texas influenced consumer preferences?
The craft beer culture in Texas has had a significant impact on consumer preferences in the state. Here are several ways in which it has influenced them:
1. Diversity of Offerings: The craft beer scene in Texas has led to a vast array of beer styles being available to consumers, ranging from traditional lagers and IPAs to more experimental brews like fruited sours and barrel-aged stouts. This diverse offering caters to consumers with a wide range of tastes and preferences.
2. Local Pride: Texans have developed a strong sense of pride in their local craft beer scene. Many consumers prioritize supporting local breweries over larger, national brands. This has led to a surge in the popularity of Texas-based breweries and brewpubs.
3. Emphasis on Quality: Craft breweries in Texas have placed a strong emphasis on quality ingredients and brewing techniques. Consumers have come to expect high-quality, flavorful beers from local breweries, leading to a shift away from mass-produced, generic beer brands.
4. Community Engagement: Craft breweries in Texas often foster a sense of community and camaraderie among consumers. Breweries host events, tastings, and collaborations with local businesses, creating a sense of belonging and connection among craft beer enthusiasts.
Overall, the craft beer culture in Texas has played a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences towards more diverse, locally-focused, high-quality beers, and fostering a strong sense of community among beer enthusiasts in the state.
17. What are the best-selling craft beer styles produced by Texas breweries?
Some of the best-selling craft beer styles produced by Texas breweries include:
1. IPAs (India Pale Ales) – Known for their hop-forward flavor profiles, IPAs are popular among beer enthusiasts for their bold and bitter taste.
2. Pale Ales – A milder and more balanced alternative to IPAs, pale ales are well-liked by those who enjoy a less aggressive hop presence.
3. Lagers – Crisp and clean, lagers are widely appreciated for their refreshing qualities, making them a popular choice among a wide range of beer drinkers.
4. Stouts – Rich and robust, stouts are favored by those who enjoy dark, full-bodied beers with hints of coffee, chocolate, and roasted malt flavors.
5. Sours – With a tangy and often complex flavor profile, sour beers have gained popularity in recent years for their unique taste experience.
These styles represent a diverse range of flavor profiles and cater to various preferences among craft beer consumers in Texas.
18. How do Texas breweries engage with the community through events and promotions?
Texas breweries engage with the community through a variety of events and promotions, fostering a sense of local pride and establishing strong connections with their customer base. Some ways in which Texas breweries engage with the community include:
1. Hosting regular brewery tours and tastings, allowing the public to experience firsthand the brewing process and sample different beers.
2. Collaborating with local businesses and organizations to host beer pairing dinners, fundraisers, and other special events.
3. Participating in local festivals and events, showcasing their beers and offering unique brews that appeal to a diverse audience.
4. Organizing charitable initiatives, such as beer releases where a portion of the proceeds go to a specific cause or partnering with non-profit organizations to raise awareness and support important community issues.
5. Creating loyalty programs and offering exclusive discounts or perks to locals, encouraging repeat business and building a loyal customer base.
6. Engaging with the community through social media platforms, sharing updates on new beer releases, events, and promotions to keep customers informed and involved.
Overall, Texas breweries utilize a combination of in-person events, partnerships, charitable endeavors, and digital engagement to connect with the community and make a positive impact beyond just brewing great beer.
19. What are the demographics of craft beer enthusiasts in Texas?
The demographics of craft beer enthusiasts in Texas are diverse and have been evolving over recent years. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Age: Craft beer enthusiasts in Texas span a wide range of age groups. While the younger demographic, particularly millennials and Gen Z, have shown a strong interest in craft beer, there is also a growing number of older individuals, including baby boomers, who are exploring and enjoying craft brews.
2. Gender: Traditionally, the craft beer industry has been male-dominated, but there is a noticeable shift towards more inclusivity and diversity. Women are increasingly becoming a significant part of the craft beer scene in Texas, both as consumers and industry professionals.
3. Socioeconomic Status: Craft beer enthusiasts in Texas come from various socioeconomic backgrounds. While craft beer can be seen as a premium product with higher price points, there are options available to suit different budgets, making it accessible to a broader range of consumers.
4. Geographic Location: Texas is a vast state with a diverse population spread across urban centers, suburban areas, and rural communities. Craft beer enthusiasts can be found in all these regions, with each area having its own unique preferences and trends.
5. Ethnicity: The craft beer scene in Texas is becoming more inclusive, with enthusiasts from various ethnic backgrounds participating in and contributing to the community. Breweries are increasingly incorporating diverse influences and flavors into their beer offerings to appeal to a broader audience.
Overall, the demographics of craft beer enthusiasts in Texas reflect a growing interest and appreciation for quality, locally produced beer across different age groups, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, geographic locations, and ethnicities. The craft beer community in Texas continues to thrive and evolve, welcoming new enthusiasts from all walks of life.
20. How do craft breweries in Texas maintain quality control and consistency in their products?
Craft breweries in Texas maintain quality control and consistency in their products through a variety of methods and practices:
1. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Craft breweries develop detailed SOPs for each stage of the brewing process, from milling the grain to packaging the final product. These SOPs help ensure that each step is carried out consistently and correctly every time.
2. Quality Assurance (QA) Testing: Breweries conduct regular QA testing throughout the brewing process to monitor key parameters such as pH levels, alcohol content, and hop bitterness. This helps in detecting any deviations from the desired specifications early on.
3. Sensory Evaluation: Many craft breweries in Texas have trained sensory panels that evaluate the aroma, flavor, and appearance of the beer to ensure consistency across batches. This subjective feedback is crucial in maintaining the intended taste profile.
4. Equipment Maintenance: Regular maintenance and calibration of brewing equipment are essential to ensure that it performs optimally and produces consistent results. Any issues with equipment can lead to variations in the final product.
5. Ingredient Sourcing: Craft breweries pay close attention to the quality of ingredients they use, such as malts, hops, yeast, and water. By sourcing high-quality ingredients, they can maintain consistency in flavor and overall product quality.
6. Quality Control Checks: Before packaging the beer, breweries conduct final quality control checks to assess factors like carbonation levels, clarity, and taste. Any batch that does not meet the quality standards is either corrected or discarded.
Overall, a combination of strict adherence to procedures, rigorous testing, sensory evaluation, equipment maintenance, ingredient sourcing, and quality control checks helps craft breweries in Texas maintain high-quality standards and consistency in their products.
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