Another issue that needs to be addressed is that all brewpubs in Iowa are prohibited from selling a growler of beer to-go without first selling the beer to a beer distributor and then must buy it back before selling it to the consumer. This is something that all parties do not like. Beer Distributors do not like this because the volume is so low it is considered a nuisance. Brewpubs don't like it because it raises the price they have to charge for the growler and also prevents the consumer from getting the freshest beer possible. Finally the consumer doesn't like it because it forces them to pay more for the growler of beer.
Only breweries and brewpubs defined as "Native" are allowed to sell growlers directly to consumers without first having to go through the hassle of selling it and buying it back first in order to sell it to a customer. Only one brewery in Iowa is licensed as a "Native" brewery. This is because breweries licensed as such cannot sell Wine or Liquor, something that is important in running a successful, full service brewpub.
What is a growler?
A growler is a half-gallon jug of beer filled directly from a tap at a bar. You could think of it as "carryout" for beer.
Why "growler"?
The name is derived from the hissing sound that used come out of the loose caps when growlers were a popular for beer to be delivered to homes. You can read about the history of growlers. (beeradvocate.com)