The goal of this project is to produce an automated malting system that enables microbreweries and small farms to produce small batches of local malt with a wider variety than what is currently available on the market. Traditionally, malt is ordered from a select few malt producers throughout the United States and Canada, with smaller selections of malt being imported from overseas. A machine which can automate the malting process will allow small farms and local breweries to work together to create more flavorful liquors which are impacted from local climates, soils, and other environmental conditions - can offer many benefits to local communities.

• Flavor

  • U.S. Malt lacks flavor/distinctiveness

  • Craft beer → more sophisticated, diverse flavors

• FAN (Free Amino Nitrogen)

  • Deficiency → poor yeast nutrition/health

  • Excess → reduced flavor stability

  • U.S. Malt typically high levels FAN

• Scale

  • Small number, large companies control malt production

  • Mostly produce in bulk

  • 75% breweries buy bag malt (not bulk)