ST. PAUL, Minn. (Oct. 04, 2019) – Locally sourced agricultural products are fueling many exciting opportunities in Minnesota’s economy. A prime example of this growth is in the state’s booming craft brewing and distilling industry. To highlight this growth and discuss opportunities for more innovation, the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute is pleased to announce it is hosting “From Field to Glass: Innovations in Brewing and Distilling,” with BevSource, The Lab, Renewing the Countryside, the Artisan Grain Collaborative and MN AgriGrowth Council, as part of 2019’s Food I Ag I Ideas Week.
The forum will explore the innovative agricultural developments fueling the remarkable expansion and accomplishments of brewing and distilling industries in Minnesota. The program will include a series of panel discussions including brewers, distillers, beverage makers, raw material providers, and other value-chain players in this space. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. October 10, 2019 at The Lab in Minneapolis. A cash bar happy hour follows from 3-4 p.m.
According to the Brewer’s Association, craft beer sales in Minnesota accounted for nearly $2.1 billion in economic impact last year. The growth in small businesses is also impressive. In 2008 there were fewer than 10 in the state. Last year, 29 new breweries opened bringing the total to 178—good enough for 16th out of 50 states for breweries per capita in the nation. There are also more than 30 craft distilleries operating in Minnesota.
Field to Glass offers a great opportunity to hear from the experts and creators who are crafting diverse beverages using locally sourced commodities and ingredients. Attendees will learn about the important role these ingredients play in creating new products and in promoting opportunities for continued growth and business partnerships in Minnesota.