Understanding the Yards Brewing Process
Many breweries, including Yards, have adopted techniques to make their products more accessible to beer lovers with gluten sensitivities. For Yards, this process involves adding an enzyme called Brewers' Clarex during fermentation. This enzyme is a protease that is designed to break down the gluten protein chains, resulting in a finished beer with a significantly lower gluten content. Some sources indicate that this process can reduce gluten levels to below 20 parts per million (ppm), which is the international standard for labeling a food product as "gluten-free". However, as the beer is still brewed with gluten-containing grains like barley, it is not considered truly gluten-free, especially under the more cautious U.S. regulatory standards.
The Enzyme Process: How Yards Creates Gluten-Reduced Beer
The process of using Brewers' Clarex is straightforward. After the initial wort is created from a traditional, barley-based grain bill, the enzyme is added. As the yeast ferments the sugars, Brewers' Clarex works simultaneously to hydrolyze or break down the large gluten proteins into smaller fragments. This is the mechanism by which the gluten content is lowered. Many brewers prefer this method because it does not alter the flavor profile of the beer, preserving the characteristics associated with traditional beer styles. For individuals with a mild gluten sensitivity, this may be sufficient, but for those with celiac disease, the risks remain. Yards has also been noted for its knowledgeable staff regarding the process and for having gluten-friendly options in their facilities.
Gluten-Reduced vs. True Gluten-Free: A Critical Difference
It is crucial for consumers to understand the difference between gluten-reduced and truly gluten-free beer. A genuinely gluten-free beer is made from start to finish with naturally gluten-free ingredients, such as sorghum, rice, or millet. These beers are brewed in dedicated facilities to prevent any possibility of cross-contamination. In the United States, such products are regulated by the FDA. In contrast, gluten-reduced beers, like those from Yards, start with traditional gluten-containing grains. Because the gluten is merely broken down and not fully removed, the FDA does not permit these products to be labeled as “gluten-free”. Instead, they carry a “crafted to remove gluten” label, which is regulated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).
A Note for Celiac Sufferers and Sensitive Individuals
For people with celiac disease, a serious autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, relying on gluten-reduced beer is not recommended. Studies have shown that even after the enzyme treatment, some people with celiac disease may still have an immune response to the beer. The safety of these beers depends on the individual's level of sensitivity and the consistency of the brewing process, neither of which can be guaranteed. Cross-contamination within a brewery that also produces regular beer is another serious risk for individuals with celiac disease. Therefore, medical and dietary experts advise those with celiac disease to stick to products explicitly labeled as "certified gluten-free".
Exploring Truly Gluten-Free Alternatives
Fortunately, the market for certified gluten-free beer has expanded significantly. These beers are made with naturally gluten-free grains and often from breweries with dedicated gluten-free facilities. Some brands and styles to look for include:
- Aurochs Brewing Company: A dedicated gluten-free brewery offering a variety of beers.
- Ghostfish Brewing Company: A 100% gluten-free facility known for its Grapefruit IPA and other styles.
- Glutenberg Craft Brewery: Specializes in gluten-free beers with a wide range of options.
- Holidaily Brewing Company: A dedicated gluten-free brewery with a selection of blonde ales and IPAs.
- New Grist: A popular gluten-free beer by Lakefront Brewery, brewed with sorghum and rice.
Comparison Table: Gluten-Reduced vs. Truly Gluten-Free
| Feature | Yards' Gluten-Reduced Beers | Certified Gluten-Free Beers |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Ingredients | Uses traditional, gluten-containing grains (e.g., barley) | Uses naturally gluten-free grains (e.g., sorghum, rice) |
| Gluten Removal Process | Adds an enzyme (Brewers' Clarex) to break down gluten peptides | Avoids gluten-containing ingredients entirely |
| Regulatory Labeling | "Crafted to remove gluten" (TTB) | "Certified Gluten-Free" (FDA/GFCO) |
| Celiac Disease Safety | Not recommended due to potential immune response and cross-contamination risk | Generally considered safe, assuming no cross-contamination |
| Examples | Philadelphia Pale Ale, Brawler | Glutenberg, Ghostfish, Holidaily |
How to Identify Gluten-Safe Beer Labels
When purchasing beer, especially if you have celiac disease, always read the label carefully. Look for certifications from reputable organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) or the Celiac Support Association (CSA). The presence of these logos indicates that the product has undergone rigorous testing and meets the strict criteria for gluten-free status. If a label says “crafted to remove gluten” or “clarified with Brewers’ Clarex,” it is a gluten-reduced product and should be approached with caution by those with celiac disease. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer directly to inquire about their specific brewing processes and safety protocols.
Conclusion
In summary, none of the beers from Yards Brewing Company are truly gluten-free. The brewery utilizes a process involving an enzyme to reduce gluten levels, resulting in a 'gluten-reduced' product. While some individuals with mild gluten sensitivity might tolerate these beers, they are not a safe option for those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance due to the potential for residual gluten and cross-contamination. For a completely safe and worry-free option, individuals on a strict gluten-free diet should opt for certified gluten-free beers made from naturally gluten-free ingredients.
