FDA Reverses Course On ‘Spent Grains’ Rule

The FDA is issuing a revised rule that will allow a century old practice of brewers to sell or donate spent grains to continue.

For over 100 years, “spent grains” – a natural byproduct of the brewing process have been sold to farms at a very low cost for use as an inexpensive feed for livestock.

The spent or “wet” grains are great for livestock because they are rich in protein and fiber and also hydrate the animals as they eat.

In April, the FDA attempted to impose new regulations on the practice that would have ended the relationship between farmers and brewers by imposing strict restrictions on the storage and monitoring of the used grains.

Senator Charles Schumer announced today that his efforts to get the FDA to reverse course have been successful and will allow the growing Upstate craft brewing industry and farmers to continue working together.

“Back in April, I made clear to the FDA that this ridiculous rule would have been extremely damaging for Upstate New York, harming both our burgeoning craft brew industry and farmers alike, and I am glad the FDA realized their proposed rule was misguided and needed to be revised,” said Schumer. “This new rule, which eliminates the unnecessary burdens that could have threatened this age-old, win-win transaction, is a major victory for brewers and farmers throughout the state. Our small farmers and brewers can now rest easy that they do not have to toss potential profits.”