Frederick’s thriving craft beer scene has a new player. Funktional Brewing Co. is blending tradition with innovation by incorporating health-focused ingredients into their brews. Founded by Jon Rowley, Tim Olsen, and Josh Ewin—three entrepreneurs who met at Frederick’s technology incubator, FITCI—Funktional Brewing Co. is on a mission to offer something truly unique: beers that explore the potential of functional ingredients while delivering the craft and flavor that Frederick beer lovers know and love.
Jon and Tim, both biomedical engineers with a passion for health and wellness, came up with the idea to combine functional ingredients like adaptogens and nootropics into beer. Josh, a seasoned entrepreneur and avid brewer, was the perfect fit for their vision. Together, they quickly developed several innovative beer concepts and showcased their creations at the 2024 Maryland Craft Beer Festival. Positive reception during the festival led to the creation of Funktional Brewing Co. and the launch of their first functionally crafted Hazy IPA, The Key.
Funktional Brewing’s niche lies in using functional ingredients like adaptogens and nootropics—natural compounds traditionally known for their wellness benefits. “Adaptogens, such as Reishi mushrooms Ashwagandha, are often used to help the body manage stress, while nootropics like Lion’s Mane support cognitive function,” the founders explain. Their first beer, The Key, combines these ingredients with bold IPA flavors, offering a unique take on craft brewing. “While we’re not making health claims, we’re excited to innovate with these unique ingredients and offer a novel craft beer experience,” they add.
Funktional Brewing appeals to a wide range of consumers—from craft beer lovers to health-conscious individuals curious about functional ingredients. “People are becoming more mindful of their alcohol consumption,” Jon says. “We’re crafting beers that not only deliver on flavor but are also infused with micro-ingredients like adaptogens and nootropics, which many of us may lack in our everyday diet.”
The launch of The Key marks a significant milestone for the Funktional Brewing team, embodying their passion for pushing the boundaries of beer while honoring the traditional craft. With this release, Funktional Brewing Co. is excited to see how Frederick responds to their unique blend of creativity and tradition. Their goal is to prove that The Key is more than just a novelty—it’s a high-quality brew that delivers a distinct experience, one that will keep customers coming back for more.
Looking ahead, the team is excited to launch a second beer, continuing their commitment to creativity and quality while growing their brand thoughtfully. They aim to show that their approach to brewing can create a sustainable line of products that consistently deliver on taste, experience, and craftsmanship.
To stay up to date with Funktional Brewing Co., be sure to follow their Facebook and Instagram pages. Want to try The Key? It’s available on tap and in 6-packs to go at Rockwell Brewery!
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