UK: Farmers asked to look at which spring malting barley varieties they are growing

MAGB, the Maltsters' Association of Great Britain, is asking growers to look at which spring malting barley varieties they are growing.

With the increase in demand for malt from the distilling sector, there are new opportunities for growers in England to supply this market, HGCA reports.

Mike Norfolk, Chairman of the Maltsters’ Association Trade committee, said: “The main variety which is being sought by the distillers is Concerto, which has full IBD approval for brewing and distilling. There are others which are available with full IBD approval for brewing or distilling.

"The new Recommended List will be published in December which will include information from the 2012 season and an update on IBD approvals. Growers must talk to their local merchant to be sure that they are growing the right variety for the right market.

"Distilling varieties are low or no GN producing and need to be grown with lower nitrogen levels in mind - the distilling trade requires low nitrogen barley mainly under 1.60%. Farmers who normally grow barley for the brewing industry can use a higher nitrogen specification of up to 1.85%."

21 November, 2012