How the War in Ukraine Could Increase the Cost of Your Beer in Minnesota

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It seems that prices on just about everything have already been going up, and now it's possible the cost of beer could be increasing in Minnesota-- thanks to the war in Ukraine.

Prices were already going up in Minnesota

Inflation rates not seen in 40 years have had prices on many things we use every day already increasing a lot lately here in Minnesota. And now the price of a beer in the Land of 10,000 Lakes might also be going up, and we can blame it all on the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Prices of beer brewed in Minnesota were likely going to increase anyway, according to this Star Tribune story, because the cost of several raw materials (like aluminum cans, paperboard for cartons, and trucking) were already getting scarce, thanks to supply chain issues caused by the pandemic.

But now the war in Ukraine could cause beer prices to increase even more

Several sources are saying there's now even more pressure on one raw material needed to brew beer: barley. Why are barley prices going up? Because the Ukraine-- currently at war with Russia-- is a big producer of barley. In fact, this 12 News story from Wisconsin TV station WISN notes that Ukraine produces nearly 20-percent of the world's barley.

Ukraine is one of the top barley producers in the world

And, according to story, Jim McGreevy, president and CEO of the Beer Institute, said Ukraine is one of the top-five barley producers in the world, and the ongoing conflict there could cause prices to rise. And those increasing costs could then be passed on to you and me when we go to buy a pint or case to take home.

However, if you're like me, it won't really matter much-- because I know I'm still going to purchase and enjoy just as much great Minnesota craft beer as I always have (if not MORE), even if the prices have increased, am I right?

And if you're looking for some great local craft beer, keep scrolling to check out our list of 22 great breweries and taprooms, all within an hour of Rochester!

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