Original Stella Artois: Not a Gluten-Free Option
The original Stella Artois lager is brewed using a recipe that includes malted barley, a grain that naturally contains gluten. The brewing and fermentation process does not remove the gluten content to a level considered safe for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance. For this reason, anyone with a gluten-related dietary restriction should avoid the classic Stella Artois lager.
The amount of gluten can vary depending on the beer style, with lagers typically having a lower concentration than wheat beers or ales, but still significantly above the 20 parts per million (ppm) legal threshold for a 'gluten-free' label. The presence of barley as a core ingredient in the original Stella Artois recipe means it cannot be considered low-gluten or safe for those with celiac disease.
The Certified Gluten-Free Alternative
Recognizing the need for inclusive beverage options, Stella Artois has introduced a certified gluten-free variant. This product is specifically designed for people who must avoid gluten completely. To achieve this, the brand’s expert brewmasters have developed a method to remove gluten from the beer during the brewing process while preserving its distinctive taste. This process uses an enzyme that breaks down the gluten proteins to levels below the 20 ppm threshold, allowing it to be officially labeled as gluten-free.
How Gluten-Free Beer is Made
There are generally two methods for producing gluten-free beer:
- Brewing with gluten-free ingredients: Some breweries use naturally gluten-free grains like rice, sorghum, or millet.
- Brewing with gluten-containing ingredients and then removing the gluten: This is the method used by Stella Artois for its gluten-free version. An enzyme is added during fermentation to break down the gluten peptides.
For those with celiac disease, products using the second method are sometimes viewed with caution, as some testing methods may not detect all residual gluten fragments. However, the Stella Artois gluten-free variant has been certified by organizations like Coeliac UK, confirming it meets strict standards for gluten-free products.
Understanding 'Gluten-Removed' vs. 'Gluten-Free'
When navigating beer options, it is crucial to understand the difference between 'gluten-removed' and 'gluten-free.'
| Feature | Gluten-Free Beer | Gluten-Removed Beer |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Made from naturally gluten-free grains (sorghum, rice, etc.). | Brewed with traditional, gluten-containing grains like barley. |
| Processing | Brewed in a facility free from cross-contamination. | An enzyme is used to break down gluten peptides during fermentation. |
| Gluten Level | Less than 20 ppm. | Contains less than 20 ppm after treatment, but may contain residual fragments. |
| Celiac Safety | Generally considered safest for those with celiac disease. | Not recommended for those with celiac disease due to residual gluten concerns. |
| Labeling | Can be labeled as "Gluten-Free" if it meets the less than 20 ppm standard. | Typically labeled as "crafted to remove gluten" or similar. |
Making the Right Choice
For individuals with a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, the choice between the original and gluten-free Stella Artois is clear: the classic lager is not safe for consumption. The original recipe relies on malted barley, making it a source of gluten. For those who enjoy the Stella Artois brand and must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet, the certified gluten-free version is a viable and safe alternative. Always ensure you are selecting the correct product by carefully reading the label, especially for the 'Contains Barley' allergen declaration required on gluten-removed beers in some regions. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is always recommended for personalized dietary advice. For comprehensive information on celiac disease, consult reputable sources such as the Celiac Disease Foundation.
Conclusion
In summary, the original Stella Artois is high in gluten due to its malted barley content and should be avoided by anyone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Fortunately, Stella Artois offers a certified gluten-free alternative, produced by skillfully removing gluten to ensure it meets the necessary safety standards. While the original is off-limits for a gluten-free diet, the availability of a dedicated gluten-free version allows enthusiasts to enjoy the brand's lager without compromising their health.
