Understanding the Two Types of 'Gluten-Free' Beer
For someone with celiac disease, navigating the beer aisle requires careful label reading and understanding the brewing process. Not all beers advertised with a low-gluten content are safe. There are two primary categories to consider: naturally gluten-free beer and gluten-removed (or gluten-reduced) beer. Knowing the difference is key to avoiding an adverse health reaction.
Naturally Gluten-Free Beer
This is the safest choice for individuals with celiac disease. These beers are brewed using grains that do not contain gluten from the start, such as sorghum, millet, buckwheat, rice, or corn. Since no gluten is ever introduced into the brewing process, there is no risk of residual gluten peptides. Dedicated gluten-free breweries often produce these beers, which further minimizes the risk of cross-contamination. The flavor profiles can differ from traditional barley-based beers, but modern brewing techniques have resulted in a wide array of delicious and complex options.
Gluten-Removed (or Gluten-Reduced) Beer
This type of beer is not recommended for individuals with celiac disease. These brews start with traditional gluten-containing grains like barley, and an enzyme, such as Brewers Clarex®, is added during fermentation to break down the gluten proteins. While this process can reduce the gluten content to below the legally defined 20 parts per million (ppm), it does not eliminate it entirely. The fragmented gluten peptides can still trigger an autoimmune response in some individuals with celiac disease. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in the US does not allow these products to make a 'gluten-free' claim, and some brands are required to state "contains barley" on their labels.
Popular and Safe Naturally Gluten-Free Beer Brands
Thanks to the rise in health-conscious consumer demand, there are now more delicious and accessible naturally gluten-free beer brands than ever before. Many of these breweries operate in dedicated gluten-free facilities, ensuring maximum safety.
- Glutenberg: A Canadian brewery specializing in a wide range of dedicated gluten-free beers, including award-winning IPAs, blondes, and stouts.
- Ghostfish Brewing Company: Based in Seattle, this is a 100% gluten-free facility producing highly-regarded pale ales, IPAs, and stouts.
- Holidaily Brewing Company: A Colorado-based, 100% gluten-free brewery with a variety of styles, from blonde ales to porters.
- Burning Brothers Brewing: A dedicated gluten-free Minnesota brewery offering a diverse lineup, including a pale ale and roasted coffee ale.
- Ground Breaker Brewing: An Oregon brewery and gastropub operating in a dedicated gluten-free facility.
- Redbridge Lager (Anheuser-Busch): One of the most widely available gluten-free beers, made from sorghum.
Gluten-Free vs. Gluten-Removed Beer: A Comparison
To highlight the crucial differences, this table compares the key aspects of naturally gluten-free and gluten-removed beers. It's an important distinction for anyone with celiac disease.
| Feature | Naturally Gluten-Free Beer | Gluten-Removed Beer |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Grains | Gluten-free grains (sorghum, rice, millet, etc.) | Gluten-containing grains (barley, wheat) |
| Gluten Content | Guaranteed to be below 20 ppm and often undetectable | Below 20 ppm, but contains fragmented peptides |
| Safety for Celiacs | Generally considered safe for all celiacs | Not recommended for those with celiac disease |
| Labeling | May be labeled "gluten-free" | May be required to list "contains barley" |
| Brewing Process | Uses gluten-free grains and often dedicated facilities | Uses enzymes to break down gluten peptides |
| Taste Profile | Unique flavor profile based on alternative grains | Closer to traditional beer taste |
Additional Safe Alternatives to Beer
If you're not finding a gluten-free beer that suits your palate, or simply want more variety, several other alcoholic beverages are naturally gluten-free.
- Hard Cider: Made from fermented apples, most hard ciders are naturally gluten-free. Always check the label, as some manufacturers may add barley.
- Wine and Spirits: Pure distilled spirits like vodka, gin, and whiskey are generally considered safe for celiacs, as the distillation process removes gluten proteins. Most wines are also naturally gluten-free.
- Hard Seltzer: Typically made from fermented cane sugar, hard seltzers are a popular and naturally gluten-free choice.
- Mead: An ancient alcoholic beverage made from fermenting honey, mead is naturally gluten-free and offers a wide variety of styles.
- Alcoholic Ginger Beer: Many alcoholic ginger beers are made with naturally gluten-free ingredients, but always confirm the label.
How to Ensure You are Choosing a Truly Safe Beer
For those with celiac disease, caution is paramount. Here are a few tips to ensure you are selecting the safest option:
- Read the Label: The most reliable indication is a certified gluten-free label. Look for certification marks from reputable organizations.
- Look for Ingredients: Read the ingredient list to ensure it is made with naturally gluten-free grains like sorghum, rice, or millet.
- Research the Brewery: If a brand claims to be gluten-free, investigate their brewing process. Check if they operate in a dedicated gluten-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.
- Avoid "Gluten-Removed" Products: Steer clear of beers labeled as "gluten-reduced" or "crafted to remove gluten." These are not safe for individuals with celiac disease.
- Look for Allergen Disclosures: In many regions, products made from gluten-containing grains but treated to remove gluten must still disclose the presence of barley or wheat. A "contains barley" label is a red flag for celiacs.
Conclusion
Living with celiac disease doesn't mean sacrificing the enjoyment of a good beer. While traditional brews remain off-limits, the burgeoning market for naturally gluten-free options provides a wide array of safe and delicious alternatives. By understanding the difference between truly gluten-free and gluten-removed beers and researching trusted brands, you can confidently choose a beverage that aligns with your dietary needs. Exploring the world of hard ciders, wines, and meads also offers plenty of excellent alternatives for a refreshing and safe drink. Cheers to a safe and satisfying choice!
Why is gluten-removed beer dangerous for people with celiac disease?
Gluten-removed beer starts with gluten-containing grains like barley. The process uses enzymes to break down gluten proteins, but they may not be completely eliminated. The remaining fragmented gluten peptides can still trigger an immune response in some individuals with celiac disease, making them unsafe for consumption.
Is Corona beer gluten-free?
No, Corona beer is not gluten-free. It is brewed with barley malt, which contains gluten, and should be avoided by individuals with celiac disease.
Are hard seltzers a safe gluten-free alternative to beer?
Yes, most hard seltzers are naturally gluten-free as they are typically made from fermented cane sugar, not gluten-containing grains. Always check the ingredient label to be certain, but they are generally a safe choice.
Are distilled spirits safe for someone with celiac disease?
Yes, pure distilled spirits, even those made from gluten-containing grains like wheat or barley (e.g., whiskey, vodka), are considered safe because the distillation process effectively removes the gluten protein. However, be cautious of spirits with added flavorings or colorings, which could introduce gluten.
What are some common gluten-free grains used in beer?
Common gluten-free grains used in brewing include sorghum, millet, buckwheat, rice, and corn. These are used as a base instead of traditional barley or wheat to create a naturally gluten-free beer.
Is there a gluten-free stout available?
Yes, some dedicated gluten-free breweries, like Ghostfish Brewing Company and Ground Breaker Brewing, produce gluten-free stouts. These are made using alternative grains and are safe for individuals with celiac disease.
Why do some gluten-free beers taste different?
The flavor differences in naturally gluten-free beers come from using alternative grains like sorghum or millet instead of barley. Each grain imparts a unique taste profile, and while they differ from traditional beer, many have developed complex and delicious flavors.
