OnTap Magazine

lthough we live in an undeniably global economy, local sourcing has a very important role to play in supporting and bolstering the economic well- being of both businesses and the communities they operate within. Localising our supply chains is not just a way of reducing the carbon footprint of our production systems; it also plays an increasingly important role in growing business, moving markets, and transforming the economies of communities around the world. Every sector of society reaps the far- reaching bene ts of local sourcing – individual farmers see increased outputs and pro ts; businesses limit costs of importing raw materials, maintain shorter supply chains, and drive growth with the creation of new products; and communities at large bene t from the economic development generated within their own borders. To see the tangible impacts that local sourcing can a ord local economies and communities, one need only look to the supply chain innovations happening in the beer industry – thanks to a little help from enzymes. BREWING UP SUSTAINABILITY Any beer lover knows that there is a brew appealing to any and every taste preference. Much of this depends on the skill of the brewer in using a variety of di erent raw materials and available ingredients. From sorghum to cassava, from wheat to barley, from maize to quinoa and buckwheat, there are many raw materials that can be used to make a rich variety of delicious beers; however, not all raw materials are equally optimal for the beer brewing process. is is where enzymes have a very important role to play. e process of brewing relies on enzymes for beer production. ese enzymes come from the raw material, namely malted barley. e traditional brewing process has not changed in From neighbourhood farmers’ markets to farm-to-table restaurants, local sourcing has never been more popular, accessible, or beneficial for individuals and businesses alike. There is a brew appealing to any and every taste preference ontapmag.co.za | Spring 2018 | 47