MSP Seeks Spin-Off to Scottish Farmers from Budweiser Beer

Banff & Buchan SNP MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed a response received from US brewing giant Anheuser-Busch – producers of the Budweiser brand – to use Scottish farmers to grow some of their barley requirements.

The MSP approached Anheuser-Busch following a meeting with North-east farmers where concern was expressed at the possible impact on cereal growers following the closure of the Fountainhall brewery in Edinburgh by Scottish & Newcastle.

Mr Stevenson commented:

“The grain used in the manufacture of Budweiser in the UK is imported due to the brewer’s wish to standardise the type of barley used for all its operations worldwide to ensure a consistent taste and standard.

“I put it to the company that North-east farmers would be very willing to accommodate their specific grain requirements and asked that this be considered.

“I have now received a reply from Colorado confirming that they will study the option to use source barley from Scotland, subject to the necessary disease-resistance specifications being met.

“I will be very interested in the outcome of this study and I hope that we can see a positive benefit for Scottish farmers as a result.”