What is Sorghum?

As you might know, gluten is found in many grains, which is why those maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle avoid drinking beers that are made with wheat and barley.  But did you know that not all grains contain gluten?  Sorghum, rice and corn are three grains that are commonly used in gluten-free products. We brew our Tread Lightly Ale and 3R Raspberry Ale  with sorghum and Off Grid Pale Ale with brown rice rather than wheat and barley.

What is sorghum?
Sorghum is a grass that is grown in warm, dry climates around the world.

Where is it grown?
Sorghum is grown in many different countries around the world, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Ethiopia, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Mexico, the United States, and Sudan.  In the U.S., sorghum is mainly cultivated in a crop belt that runs from Southern Texas to South Dakota.  It’s considered the fifth most important cereal crop in the world.

What products is it used in?
As a grain that doesn’t trigger gluten intolerance, sorghum is used in many different products:

• In baking, sorghum flour is often used or mixed with gluten-free flours to make cookies, cakes, breads, and other gluten-free products
• One type of sorghum, sweet sorghum, is used in sweeteners such as sorghum syrup
• Sorghum is used to make fermented beverages

What industries is it used in?
Sorghum is also utilized in the production of:

• Floral arrangements
• Brooms
• Fences
• Building materials
• Pet food

Enjoy your gluten-free beer!