Finings. What are they and what perpose do they serve

[Pom]

My first brew is almost ready to bottle and im already planning my second. ( a czech pilsner)
After reading Chris's very informative and helpful 7 simple things to make HB better I have order some Saflager yeast.
But I keep seeing referance to Finings and wonder what they are and what they do? Is this somthing i should be worrying myself with so early in my brewing apprentership, or should I consertrate more on the other 6 steps chris mentiioned?

[Chris]

Finings come in two main categories:

1) Vegetable-derived finings which are good at dropping protein out of suspension, and
2) Animal-derived finings for dropping yeast out.

If you are making kit beer, I wouldn't worry about either.

If using grains, get some Irish moss in there.

I can't say I've ever bothered with gelatin.

[Pom]

Thanks chris you are a very big help.
I thought I would just try one of you step on each new brew and see how i go.

[BierMeister]

Porn,

Read this post to learn more about finings http://www.homebrewandbeer.com/forum/vi ... f=2&t=8035

[Chris]

That'd be POM

[BierMeister]

My bad Porn is a better name though

[Chris]

Yeah, but he'd be posting slightly different stuff if that were the case. And he'd go the way of sneakersupplier

[Trough Lolly]

You guys crack me up....!