NuggetvsUSDA 008

Nugget and USDA 008 are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 mL

United States

USDA 008

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.1–11.1%

Beta acid

2.7–3.3%

Total oil

1.6–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Nugget

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick USDA 008

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Nugget

HerbalGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut

Only in USDA 008

FloralSweetPeachMangoStone fruit

Property

PropertyNuggetUSDA 008
Alpha acid9.5–16%10.1–11.1%
Beta acid3–5.8%2.7–3.3%
Co-humulone22–30%25–26%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL1.6–1.7 mL
Myrcene48–59%6–7%
Humulene12–22%48–49%
Caryophyllene7–10%16–17%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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