High-level production and characterization of a novel beta-1,3-1,4-glucanase from Aspergillus awamori and its potential application in the brewing industry

•A novel β-1,3-1,4-glucanase gene (AaBglu12A) from Aspergillus awamori was expressed in Pichia pastoris.•The highest β-1,3-1,4-glucanase activity of 159,500 U/mL was produced in 5-L fermentor.•AaBglu12A was an acid tolerant enzyme.•The enzyme exhibited strict substrate specificity towards various β-1,3-1,4-glucans.•AaBglu12A improved mashing performance of filtration rate and viscosity reduction.