Gluten-Free vs. Gluten-Removed: A Crucial Distinction
When seeking what beer is ok with gluten intolerance, the most important distinction to understand is the difference between "certified gluten-free" and "gluten-removed" beers. This difference is not just about labeling; it's about the brewing process and the potential risk to your health, especially for those with celiac disease.
The Brewing Process: A Tale of Two Beers
True, certified gluten-free beers are made from naturally gluten-free grains. Instead of using traditional barley or wheat, brewers use grains such as sorghum, rice, millet, or buckwheat. This fundamental difference in ingredients ensures that the final product never contains significant levels of gluten from the start. Furthermore, many dedicated gluten-free breweries use separate equipment to prevent any risk of cross-contamination from gluten-containing products.
In contrast, gluten-removed beers start with gluten-containing ingredients like barley. During the fermentation process, an enzyme (like Brewers Clarex) is added to break down the gluten proteins into smaller fragments. While these beers often test below the 20 ppm threshold required for gluten-free labeling, this testing method is unreliable for fermented beverages. For individuals with severe gluten intolerance or celiac disease, these trace amounts can still trigger an immune response, and the beer is not considered safe.
Comparison of Gluten-Free vs. Gluten-Removed Beers
| Feature | Certified Gluten-Free Beer | Gluten-Removed Beer |
|---|---|---|
| Base Grains | Sorghum, millet, rice, buckwheat | Barley, wheat, rye |
| Safety for Celiacs | Generally safe; <20ppm gluten | Risky; not recommended |
| Certification | FDA regulated; labeled "Gluten-Free" | Not "Gluten-Free"; labeled "Gluten-Reduced" |
| Examples | Redbridge, Glutenberg, Holidaily | Omission, some Corona, Stone Delicious |
Your Guide to Certified Gluten-Free Beer
Finding a certified gluten-free beer that tastes great is no longer a challenge. A growing number of brands are specializing in high-quality brews that cater to various palates. Some popular choices include:
- Redbridge Lager: Brewed by Anheuser-Busch, this is one of the most widely available gluten-free beers, made from sorghum. It offers a classic lager profile, making it a reliable choice for many.
- Glutenberg: A Canadian brewery specializing in gluten-free beer, Glutenberg offers a wide range of styles, from IPAs to stouts, all made from naturally gluten-free grains.
- Holidaily Brewing Company: A 100% dedicated gluten-free brewery based in Colorado, Holidaily offers a variety of craft styles, including IPAs, pilsners, and pale ales.
- Ghostfish Brewing Company: Located in Seattle, this is another dedicated gluten-free brewery renowned for its high-quality, flavorful beers, including their IPA and stout.
- Green's Beer: This Belgian brewery specializes in gluten-free beers using naturally gluten-free ancient grains like sorghum, millet, rice, and buckwheat.
- New Grist: Brewed by Lakefront Brewery, New Grist is a pioneer in the market, made from sorghum, rice, hops, and yeast.
The Importance of Dedicated Facilities
For those with severe gluten intolerance or celiac disease, dedicated gluten-free facilities are the safest option. Breweries like Holidaily and Ghostfish, which handle no gluten-containing ingredients, eliminate the risk of cross-contamination entirely. This is particularly important for homebrewers as well; using commercially available gluten-free homebrew kits can ensure safety from contaminated equipment.
Delicious Gluten-Free Beer Alternatives
If you can't find a suitable gluten-free beer or simply want to explore other options, there are many delicious alternatives available.
List of Safe Alternatives:
- Hard Ciders: Fermented from apples, most hard ciders are naturally gluten-free. Brands like Strongbow and Stella Cidre are popular choices, but always check the label for added barley or malt.
- Hard Seltzers: The base of many hard seltzers is fermented cane sugar, making them a reliably gluten-free option. Popular brands include White Claw, Truly, and Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer.
- Distilled Spirits: Plain, distilled liquors like vodka, rum, and tequila are generally considered gluten-free, even if derived from gluten-containing grains, as the distillation process removes the gluten protein. However, flavored varieties and mixers can be a source of gluten.
Conclusion
For those asking what beer is ok with gluten intolerance, the answer lies in understanding the critical difference between certified gluten-free and gluten-removed options. To ensure safety, especially with celiac disease, always opt for certified gluten-free beers brewed with safe grains like sorghum and millet. The market now offers a wide array of high-quality gluten-free beers, and for those seeking other options, hard ciders and seltzers provide excellent, flavorful alternatives. Always read labels carefully and prioritize brands that use dedicated, gluten-free facilities to avoid cross-contamination. For more information on celiac-safe products, visit the Celiac Disease Foundation website.
