What is the term for a modified barley kernel?

The term for a modified barley kernel is "Green Malt." Green malt refers to the germinated barley grains that have undergone the early stages of the malting process but have not yet been dried or roasted. During germination, the barley kernel's starches begin to convert into sugars, and enzymes are activated, which are crucial for the brewing process. This modification is necessary for producing malt that can be used in brewing, as it enhances the kernel's fermentability and prepares it for further processing.

In the context of brewing, properly modified malt is essential for creating fermentable sugars that yeast can convert into alcohol and carbon dioxide during fermentation. The advancement of this modification through the malting process stages directly impacts the flavor and characteristics of the final beer product.