Abstract: A process of producing black malt. In the process, a batch of malted grain is steeped in water such that, after steeping, the malted grain has a first moisture content. The batch of malted grain is microwaved such that, after microwaving, the first moisture content is reduced to a second moisture content. Further, in the process, the batch of malted grain is dried at a temperature of from 150° C. to 200° C. for a time period sufficient to produce the batch of black malt. The batch of black malt has a third moisture content that less than the second moisture content.

Abstract: A process of producing crystal malt in which a batch of malted grain or germinated malt having a first moisture content is provided. The batch is heated by mircowaving or steaming such that at least 85% of the batch saccharifies. During heating, the first moisture content is reduced to a second moisture content. Embodiments of a batch of crystal malt are also provided. The batch of crystal malt includes at least 90% crystallized malt kernels. Further, the batch of crystal malt contains less than 50 ppb of 4-methylimidazole (4-MeI).

Abstract: A process of producing black malt. In the process, a batch of malted grain is steeped in water such that, after steeping, the malted grain has a first moisture content. The batch of malted grain is microwaved such that, after microwaving, the first moisture content is reduced to a second moisture content. Further, in the process, the batch of malted grain is dried at a temperature of from 150° C. to 200° C. for a time period sufficient to produce the batch of black malt. The batch of black malt has a third moisture content that less than the second moisture content.

Abstract: A process of producing crystal malt in which a batch of malted grain or germinated malt having a first moisture content is provided. The batch is heated by mircowaving or steaming such that at least 85% of the batch saccharifies. During heating, the first moisture content is reduced to a second moisture content. Embodiments of a batch of crystal malt are also provided. The batch of crystal malt includes at least 90% crystallized malt kernels. Further, the batch of crystal malt contains less than 50 ppb of 4-methylimidazole (4-MeI).