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WHAT IS SPENT GRAIN?
Spent grain is the by-product that is left over after a brewery’s mash has extracted quite a bit of the nutrients, sugars, and proteins found in grains. These leftovers are called malt. An alarming 85% of malt is often thrown away after the extraction process, which has inspired many craft breweries in the world to come up with innovative alternatives to prevent spent grain from going to waste. We put together a list of fun and creative DIY ideas on the various uses of spent grain. Have fun!
SPENT GRAIN FLOUR
See the link for a how-to on making BSG flour by Instructables.com.
STUFFED SOFT TOYS
Use spent grains to fill home-made soft toys instead of other materials. Ideal for those creating their own toys.
A BAKERS GARDEN
Have a backyard garden?
Fill the space with DIY areas for kids to entertain themselves by making various items with spent grain while parents can enjoy nibbling on spent grain bakery delights.
POTPOURRI BAGS
Add a couple of drops of essential oils to grains and dried flowers. Fill a potpourri bag or create beautiful displays.
PIZZA CRUST
Use any pizza crust recipe, but add a serving of spent grain to the mix. The result is a crispy, rough crust that tastes great. Recipe Here.
VEGGIE BURGER
Jo In the Kitchen compiled a unique recipe for making veggie burgers. Find it here.
GARDEN COMPOST
Spent grains have been used for centuries as fertilizers. If you have no idea how to use it in your garden, see the link below to Garden Guides.
SPENT GRAIN BREAD
One of the most common uses of spent grain is by making bread. It adds a nutty taste, which most everyone enjoys.
SPENT GRAIN WAFFLES
Mouthwatering, delicious, and different, create some spent grain waffles
DOG TREATS & BISCUITS
Your dogs will love you for these tasty treats.
OTHER USES
Spent grain can also be used for:
- Animal Fodder
- Bio-fuel
- Fertilizers
- Growing medium for mushrooms
- Plastic Bags
- Creating Artwork
- Ethanol
- Making homemade paper
WHERE TO FIND SPENT GRAIN
Search for any local breweries in your area. They usually have a lot of spent grain (malt) to remove.
