Specifications_for_Laboratory_Test_Services.docx

Specifications for Laboratory Test Service Glycosidic Nitrile Levels in Barley Malt Samples

USDA-ARS, Aberdeen, ID USA, is requesting laboratory test service for Glycosidic Nitrile levels in Barley Malt Samples based upon industry standards and professional laboratory GN measurement methodology. Laboratory must be experienced with malting barley GN testing, and must have established quality control checkpoints.

Glycosidic Nitrile (GN) is a natural chemical compound in barley malt capable of producing cyanide (ethyl carbamate) during the distilling process. The concentration of the compound varies in barley lines. Some lines may contain very little or none while others could contain high levels. The brewing industry is interested in low or no GN barley varieties, and we are seeking laboratory test services to measure the levels of GN in barley malt samples.