what is a malt beverage

A malt beverage is a fermented drink made primarily from the grain of the barley plant, which undergoes a process of malting before it is turned into a drink. It can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic based on the level of fermentation. Beer is the most common malt beverage, but there are also flavored malt beverages (FMBs) or "malternatives," which are drinks with added flavors. Malt beverages must contain 25% malt and at least 7.5 pounds of hops per 100 barrels of liquid. The term "malt beverage" is also used for drinks made using a malt base with natural or artificial flavors, such as FMBs. Malt liquor, on the other hand, is made with cheaper grains like corn, has extra sugar, and usually does not have hops, making it a sweeter, less bitter drink with a higher alcohol content compared to traditional beer