Ingredient

Malted Barley

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What is Malted Barley?

Malted barley is a cereal grain that has been soaked, germinated, and dried, a process known as malting. This process enhances certain proteins and activates enzymes that convert starches into sugars, making it a key ingredient in brewing and distilling.

Malted barley is often used to add flavor and sweetness to products like beverages and cereals. While it is generally considered safe and nutritious, containing vitamins and minerals, individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid products with malted barley, as it contains gluten.

When you see malted barley on a label, it's likely providing a sweet, malty flavor or contributing to the fermentation process in beverages like beer.

Commonly found in: Salty Snacks, Cereal, Beverages, Beer, Whiskey

What to watch

Malted barley contains gluten, which can be problematic for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Benefits

Malted barley is a source of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

FDA

Malted barley is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods.

Research

Research supports its nutritional value, but gluten content remains a concern for sensitive individuals.

Vegan

Malted barley is plant-based and typically suitable for vegan diets.

Sources: GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Database

Scout's take

The primary glyphosate-residue vector in beer. Conventional barley in North America is commonly sprayed with glyphosate (Roundup) as a pre-harvest desiccant to dry the grain uniformly for combine harvesting; residues persist through malting, mashing, and fermentation.