Barley

From Beeripedia the Beer Wiki

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a major animal feed crop, with smaller amounts used for malting and in health food. It is a member of the grass family Poaceae. In 2005, barley ranked fourth in quantity produced and in area of cultivation of cereal crops in the world (560,000 km²)[1]. Its germination time is anywhere from 1 to 3 days.

Half of the world's barley production is used as an animal feed. A large part of the remainder used for malting and is a key ingredient in beer and whiskey production. Two-row barley is traditionally used in German and English beers, and six-row barley in American beers. Non-alcoholic drinks such as barley water and mugicha are also made from unhulled barley. A small amount is used in healthfoods.