USA, MI: Craft beers industry makes locally-grown hops a high demand commodity in Michigan

Increasingly, consumers are seeking locally-grown products. This also translates to the craft beverage industry where Michigan-grown ingredients, such as hops, are becoming a high-demand commodity, Michigan State University Extension reported on December 31.

The products that supply the Michigan craft-beverage industry are a small, but growing force in regional food systems. Demand for Michigan-grown hops is increasing with the rapid expansion of the craft brewing industry in Michigan.

Consumer motivations for purchasing local products are varied. They may feel good about supporting a local farm or farmer. Some appreciate having a personal connection and understanding the farmer’s growing practices. Still others are attracted to the fact that locally-produced goods are fresher and spend less time being transported. Whatever the reason, these purchase motivations also carry forth to drinkers of Michigan craft-brewed beverages.

The Michigan Beer Guide reports in their November/December 2013 edition that there are 154 open breweries in Michigan and 138 have public hours. These are distributed across Michigan from Milan to Copper Harbor. An example of a Michigan brewery that uses locally-grown hops is Brewery Terra Firma in Traverse City, MI. Terra Firma grows their own ingredients on site, whenever agriculturally feasible.

08 January, 2014