By Blake Jackson
The James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits (JBBI), in collaboration with the Kentucky Distiller's Association (KDA), continues its mission of strengthening the distilling community through education and innovation.
A central focus of this effort is finding new uses for spent grains, a common byproduct of the bourbon-making process. Grains such as corn, malt, and barley often remain after distillation, and many producers are exploring creative ways to reduce waste.
On August 12, representatives from organizations including Grissan Renewable Energy, BioProducts LLC, and NetZro shared their research and discussed opportunities for innovation in this area.
For decades, many Kentucky distilleries have partnered with local farmers who use spent grains as livestock feed. However, newer initiatives are looking beyond traditional methods, such as developing renewable energy sources and alternative products from these raw materials.
“The Beam Institute thrives as a hub for bringing distillers together with technical experts,” said Brad Berron, research director at JBBI. “Hosting this event on the University of Kentucky campus is the perfect way of setting the tone for a transparent, technical conversation on the innovations in distillery coproduct upcycling.”
The Spent Grains Summit is part of an ongoing series dedicated to exploring the technical side of bourbon production. Previous gatherings have examined topics such as grain quality, water chemistry, barrel maturation, and analytical practices.
The next session in the series will be held during the seventh annual Beam Institute Industry Conference, scheduled for March 16-18, 2026.
“These MeetUps are so important to our KDA Members and the industry as a whole,” said Sara Barnes, director of industry responsibility and sustainability at KDA. “It is our opportunity to bring together thought leaders, experts in the field and researchers to deliver targeted information about relevant topics.”
More details about the 2026 Industry Conference can be found at https://beaminstitute.ca.uky.edu/.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Crops