Cereals, or grains, are members of the grass family (Poaceae). They are cultivated primarily for their starchy dry fruits. Wheat, rice, corn (maize), rye, oats, barley, rice, sorghum and millet are the most common cereal crops. Cereal crops can be used for human food and livestock feed, but they have other uses such as industrial starch and biofuel. Barley is an important grain for the production of alcoholic beverages such as beer and whisky. However, 70% of global barley production is used as animal feed. There are three types of barley: two-row, six-row and hull-less barley. It can be identified by its longer âbeardâ than wheat and when ready to harvest is yellow white in color.
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