Howwas sorghum used for trade or making money?

Sorghum has been used for trade and as a source of income in various regions around the world throughout history. Here are a few examples of how sorghum was utilized for these purposes:

1. Food and Beverage Production: Sorghum grains can be processed into flour, which is used to make bread, porridge, and other food products. These products were often traded and sold in local markets, contributing to the income of farmers and traders.

2. Animal Feed: Sorghum stalks and grains were also used as animal feed, particularly for cattle, goats, and poultry. Sorghum's high nutritional value and drought tolerance made it a valuable resource for livestock farmers and traders, who could sell the excess grain or livestock raised on sorghum-based feed.

3. Brewing: Sorghum has been traditionally used in the production of alcoholic beverages, particularly in Africa. Sorghum beer, known by various names such as "opaque beer" or "sorghum ale," was widely consumed and traded, creating opportunities for brewers and traders to generate income.

4. Ethanol Production: In recent times, sorghum has gained attention as a biofuel crop, particularly for ethanol production. Ethanol, derived from the fermentation and distillation of sorghum grains, can be blended with gasoline or used as a standalone fuel. This has led to the commercialization of sorghum farming for bioenergy purposes, opening up opportunities for income generation through the sale of ethanol.

5. Export Markets: Sorghum has become an important export commodity for some countries, especially in Africa and Asia, where it is grown on a large scale. The international demand for sorghum for food, animal feed, and biofuel production has created lucrative export markets for producers and traders.

It's important to note that the use of sorghum for trade and income may vary depending on the region, cultural practices, and market conditions. These examples provide an overview of some of the ways in which sorghum has been traditionally and commercially utilized as a valuable economic resource.