Field to Glass – The Next Generation of Barley Traceability

The Next Generation of Barley Traceability consortium will build an end-to-end digital system that uses distributed ledger (a.k.a., blockchain) technology to trace Canadian-grown malt barley through every stage of the value chain—hence, “Field to Glass.”

By collaborating with diverse supply chain partners such as seed companies, farmers, malt houses, breweries, and certifiers, this secure platform will connect previously disparate data systems. This, in turn, will connect the players by means of a new and invaluable digital feedback loop.

What’s more, a subset of the data can be shared using a public-facing digital passport to highlight the end product’s origin story, available to interested consumers by the simple expedient of scanning a QR code on the label. In addition to meeting Canadian Food Inspection Agency requirements for food traceability and transparency, the information provided will increase public awareness and trust by educating shoppers on the agricultural supply chain.

Blockchain is ideal for the project, as it provides a single, secure, digital, and provable production pathway. Using this technology will also offer consortium members insight into how the agri-food sector as a whole can benefit from blockchain’s growing popularity by applying it to areas such regenerative agriculture and the reduction of carbon footprints.

In short, “Field to Glass” will allow the Canadian barley and brewing industry and its farmers to differentiate their products by proactively answering consumer questions through the sharing of verifiable food origin stories, thereby adding value and creating global brand recognition.

CAAIN Contribution
$478,888

Total Project Value
$1,611,524

Project Contact
Rory O’Sullivan
CEO
Grain Discovery
rory@graindiscovery.com