Grain Craft, an independent flour miller, announced plans to open a new Grain Craft Lab at the Kansas Wheat Commission’s Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan, Kan. In alignment with the company’s Core Value of Excellence, the new lab will strengthen its dedication in supporting and driving the long-term improvement of wheat quality, commitment to flour quality and consistency and ongoing exploration of innovation opportunities.
 
The Grain Craft lab will be housed in newly finished space in the existing Kansas Wheat Innovation Center located in Manhattan, Kan., on the Kansas State University campus. This farmer-owned, wheat research facility was opened in 2012. It is the result of the Kansas Wheat Commission’s vision for advancing technology in new wheat variety development. The $15 million Center includes 15,000 square feet of research laboratories, 22,750 square feet of greenhouses and 10,000 square feet of office space. The Grain Craft Lab will feature analytical, milling, rheological and application capabilities, along with access to other facilities in the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, including a complete test kitchen.
 
Grain Craft’s bake lab is currently located at the company’s Wichita, Kan., flour mill. All corporate lab activities including application capabilities will be moved to the Manhattan, Kan., location, and the new lab will be staffed with a full time Grain Craft Lab manager. The company will work with the KSU department of Grain Science and Industry to enhance the education and development of milling and bakery science students, who are expected to be future leaders in the industry.
 
Throughout the years Grain Craft has strongly supported the Kansas Wheat Commission’s wheat quality research efforts and has a longstanding relationship with both the Kansas Wheat Commission and Kansas State University. The company has worked with each through collaborative partnerships, special funding and ongoing data analysis assistance.
 
A grand opening for the Grain Craft Lab is scheduled for early 2021. The company will publish more grand opening details once they become available.

www.graincraft.com