Understanding the Factors Behind Gluten Free IPA Calories
Unlike the simple myth that gluten free automatically equals low-calorie, the reality is far more complex for Indian Pale Ales. While removing gluten is a primary goal for many brewers catering to those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it does not inherently reduce the beer's caloric content. The total number of calories is determined by the final concentration of two main components: alcohol and carbohydrates, primarily residual sugars.
The Impact of Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
Alcohol is a significant source of calories, containing approximately seven calories per gram. This is a major reason why high-ABV beers, including many bold IPAs, contain a higher calorie count than lighter session ales. A gluten free IPA with a 7% ABV will inevitably have more calories from its alcohol content than a 4% session IPA, regardless of the gluten status. This principle applies universally across all beer types, not just those without gluten. When evaluating a gluten free IPA's nutrition, checking the ABV is a crucial first step toward understanding its caloric load.
Ingredients and Their Role in Calories
Gluten free beers are made in one of two primary ways, both of which affect the final nutritional profile.
Brewing with Naturally Gluten Free Grains
Some brewers opt for alternative grains that do not contain gluten, such as millet, sorghum, rice, buckwheat, or corn. The fermentable sugars from these grains are what the yeast consumes to create alcohol and carbonation. The specific grain bill can influence the character and body of the beer, and the amount of residual sugar left behind after fermentation will add to the calorie count.
Brewing with Enzymes (Gluten-Removed)
A second, more common method for creating gluten free IPAs is to use traditional barley malt and then add an enzyme, such as Brewers Clarex®, during the fermentation process. This enzyme breaks down the gluten proteins to a level below 20 parts per million (ppm), which is the internationally recognized threshold for labeling a product as gluten free. Since this method still uses gluten-containing grains, a higher concentration of residual carbohydrates may remain if the yeast does not fully attenuate the sugars, impacting the final calories. Beers made this way may still be labeled 'contains barley' in some regions.
The Effect of Residual Sugars
Residual sugars are the leftover carbohydrates that remain in the beer after fermentation is complete. These sugars contribute to the beer's sweetness, body, and overall flavor profile. In IPAs, especially popular hazy or New England styles, brewers often aim for a sweeter, fuller-bodied finish, which results in more residual sugars and, consequently, a higher calorie count. A drier, more traditional West Coast IPA will typically have fewer residual sugars and, all else being equal, a lower caloric total.
Comparison of Gluten Free IPA Calories by Brand
Caloric information varies greatly from one brand to another. The following table compares several popular gluten free IPA options to illustrate this point. Note that serving sizes can differ, so always check the label for the most accurate information.
| Brand | ABV | Calories (per can/serving) | Brewing Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skinny IPA | 4.0% | 89 (330ml) | Gluten-Removed | Marketed as low-calorie, low-carb. |
| DrinkWell IPA | ~4.0% | 99 (330ml) | Gluten-Removed | Explicitly low-calorie and low-carb. |
| Small Beer IPA | 2.3% | 83 (per can) | Low-Calorie Design | Session strength, low-calorie profile. |
| BrewDog GF Punk IPA | 5.4% | ~145 (330ml) | Gluten-Removed | Standard ABV, moderate calories. |
| Glutenberg IPA | 6.0% | 235 (16 fl oz) | Naturally GF Grains | Higher ABV, standard calories. |
Making an Informed Choice
For those seeking a gluten free IPA for health or dietary reasons, it is crucial to move beyond the assumption that 'gluten free' automatically means 'low-calorie.' While some brands explicitly target the low-calorie market, many standard-strength gluten free IPAs can have a similar or even higher caloric density than their traditional counterparts due to ABV and sugar content.
- Read the label carefully: Always check the ABV and nutritional information on the packaging, as this will give you the most accurate calorie count for that specific product.
- Understand the brewing method: If calories are a concern, knowing if a beer was made from naturally gluten free grains or is gluten-removed can sometimes provide clues about its body and sugar content.
- Don't rely on myths: Dispel the misconception that gluten free is inherently a healthier or less fattening choice. The most significant factor is always the total alcohol and carbohydrate content.
Conclusion
The calories in a gluten free IPA are not uniform and are primarily dictated by the beer's alcohol percentage and residual sugar content, just like any other beer. While the gluten free status addresses a specific dietary need, it is not an indicator of a low-calorie product. Consumers should review nutritional labels and understand the brewing process to make informed decisions that align with their health goals. Ultimately, enjoying a delicious, gluten free IPA is possible for anyone, whether you are seeking a flavorful full-bodied brew or a lighter session option. For more detailed information on celiac disease and gluten free dietary guidelines, consider consulting reputable sources such as Coeliac UK.
