Kernz-huh? Could the perennial promise of Kernza benefit food, beer, and the world?
There’s a new-ish crop that’s been sprouting hopeful conversation in recent years. Kernza is the name given by Kansas-based The Land Institute to a specific germ line of perennial wheatgrass. Like a long-lost, wild cousin of traditional, annual wheat, it has the potential to help the environment and increase food production in incredible ways. It’s still in development, but producers have already had success incorporating early varieties into bakery, beer, and booze. So, what’s afoot?