© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Michigan chestnuts pop into new role as beer ingredient

There's a new beer brewing trend in Michigan: using chestnuts as an ingredient.

Various foods go in and out of style, but one that hasn’t been very popular for about a century is the chestnut. Blight wiped out nearly all the trees in the U. S. in the early 1900s, but they are making a comeback thanks to an enthusiastic bunch of growers, a number of which are located in Michigan. Not only that, Michigan’s chestnuts are going beyond the roasting fire into beer.

Current State talks with Brian Polowniak, CEO of Treeborn Products here in East Lansing.

Related Content
With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.