The Neuzelle Kloster Brewery, a 400-year-old company in eastern Germany, developed a beer that contains ingredients that not only make you healthy but also slow down the ageing process.

The beer is made by adding hot spring mineral water, algae and antioxidants to the traditional ingredients of beer – water, hops, yeast and barley, resulting in an brew that is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Stefan Fritsche, the managing director of the brewery in north-east Germany, said they had consulted several laboratories to find the right ingredients. “We hope it will help people lead healthier lives. Even though we can’t guarantee it will turn back the clock at least it is a healthy option.”

The ingredients in the ale, which is called Anti-Ageing Beer, include spirulina, an algae rich in protein, iron and vitamins A and D, which are added to the beer following the fermentation process, together with a concentrated liquid form of antioxidants known as flavonoids which are also found in tea, red wine and some fruits.

Scientists believe that antioxidants can restore elasticity in the skin lost during the ageing process and reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers. Beer, which is naturally rich in the antioxidants found in hops and barley, contains twice as many antioxidants as white wine. The Anti Aging Bier, however, is said to give the drinker 10 times the antioxidants of a normal pint of lager, bitter or ale.

The company hopes to export the beer to Europe and the US.