Beer industry in Brazil: Economic aspects, characteristics of the raw material and concerns

Abstract

Barley is one of the most cultivated grains in the world with numbers rising every year due to market demand. In the past decade, Brazil has shown impressive numbers considering beer production. However, barley cultivation does not reach the necessary amount for the beer industry which raises the need to import barley or to use some alternatives, such as, adjuncts. The most common adjunct used is corn, which is considered a good source of carbohydrates, but also a very contaminated grain. Research and monitoring of all of the steps of the chain is being carried out to improve not only the malt quality but also the competitiveness in world market.