The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) has facilitated a pivotal connection between Mexican brewers and U.S. barley producers to foster sustainable production practices in one of the world's top beer-producing countries. This collaboration was highlighted during a series of meetings in Bozeman, Montana, where procurement staff from a major Mexican brewery met with local barley growers.
Javier Chavez, USGC senior marketing specialist, emphasized the growing demand among Mexican brewers for sustainably produced ingredients. "U.S. barley growers strive to produce top-quality barley with minimal environmental impact, and we are proud to assist in showcasing their efforts to international buyers," said Chavez.
The visit included a comprehensive tour starting at Montana State University, where Dr. Hannah Uhlman, Director of the Barley Malt and Brewing Lab, discussed the biological attributes that make U.S. barley ideal for brewing. Attendees explored the university's malt quality lab and greenhouse to observe firsthand how the barley is cultivated and assessed.
Further insights were gained through visits to five local barley farms, a maltster, and a barley elevator, providing a detailed look at the U.S. barley value chain. These stops illustrated the stringent quality assurance measures and sustainable practices prioritized by U.S. agriculture.
Chavez noted the enthusiasm among the Mexican delegates to forge new business relationships and source sustainable barley for their growing operations. The program successfully facilitated these connections, offering valuable educational opportunities to learn about the robust standards within the U.S. agriculture industry. This initiative not only supports sustainable brewing practices but also strengthens international trade relations between the U.S. and Mexico in the agricultural sector.
