The world of gluten-free beer has expanded greatly in recent years, offering a variety of options for those with gluten intolerance or following a gluten-free diet. Breweries use different methods to create gluten-free beer, ensuring delicious alternatives to traditional beer are available for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative to beer or simply curious about the options available, this guide will provide you with valuable information about the gluten-free beer scene in the UK.
Key Takeaways:
- Gluten-free beer offers a range of options for those with gluten intolerance or following a gluten-free diet.
- Methods used to create gluten-free beer include enzyme-based gluten removal, the use of gluten-free grains, and specialized brewing processes.
- In the UK, the term “gluten-free” is legally protected and can only be used for products with less than 20ppm of gluten.
- Supermarkets in the UK offer a selection of gluten-free beer options, including Skinny Lager, Peroni Gluten Free, and Jubel Beer.
- Independent breweries like Bellfield Brewery and Broughton Ales provide unique and flavorful gluten-free beer choices.
Supermarket Options for Gluten-Free Beer
Some gluten-free beer options can be found in supermarkets across the UK. These options offer a convenient and accessible way for individuals with gluten intolerance or those following a gluten-free diet to enjoy a refreshing beverage without compromising on taste. Whether you’re looking for a light and low-calorie option or a bold and flavorful choice, there are gluten-free beers available to suit different preferences.
Skinny Lager
Skinny Lager is a popular gluten-free beer alternative that can be found in many UK supermarkets. With its refreshing taste and low-calorie content, it’s a great choice for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free drink. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, Skinny Lager offers a delicious gluten-free option.
Peroni Gluten Free
Another widely available option is Peroni Gluten Free. This beer is a favorite among gluten-free beer drinkers and can often be found on the gluten-free drinks selection in restaurants. With its crisp and satisfying taste, Peroni Gluten Free is a go-to choice for those seeking a gluten-free alternative to beer.
The Free From Brewing Company
The Free From Brewing Company offers a variety of gluten-free options, including their Session IPA. This citrusy and hoppy beer can be found at ALDI, Asda, and Ocado, making it easily accessible for shoppers across the UK. The Free From Brewing Company is committed to providing high-quality gluten-free alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or quality.
Jubel Beer
Jubel Beer offers a unique twist on gluten-free beer with its naturally infused flavors of peach, elderflower, and grapefruit. This refreshing and fruity beer is available at Sainsbury’s, adding a touch of excitement to the gluten-free beer market and providing a delicious option for those looking for something different.
Brewdog Vagabond IPA
For those who enjoy a beer with a balanced bitterness and citrus notes, Brewdog Vagabond IPA is a refreshing choice. This gluten-free beer alternative offers a distinctive flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs or simply looking to explore new gluten-free options, Brewdog Vagabond IPA is worth a try.
Celia Organic Lager
Tesco offers Celia Organic Lager, a light and refreshing gluten-free option. With its clean and crisp taste, it’s perfect for those who prefer a lighter beer. Additionally, Celia Organic Lager also offers a dark lager option for individuals seeking a deeper flavor and richer experience.
These supermarket options provide a diverse range of flavors and styles to cater to different preferences, ensuring that individuals with gluten intolerance or those following a gluten-free diet can still enjoy a satisfying and enjoyable beer alternative. The availability of these gluten-free options makes it easier than ever to find a beer that suits your taste buds and dietary needs.
Independent Brewery Choices for Gluten-Free Beer
In addition to the gluten-free beer options available in supermarkets, there are several independent breweries in the UK that cater to those with gluten intolerance. These breweries prioritize the quality and taste of their gluten-free beers, offering a range of flavors and styles to suit different preferences.
Bellfield Brewery
Bellfield Brewery, based in Edinburgh and run by coeliacs, is dedicated to producing gluten-free beer. They use a special brewing process that removes gluten without the need for an enzyme. One of their popular offerings is the Session Ale, which is highly regarded among gluten-free beer drinkers.
Broughton Ales
Broughton Ales is another brewery that offers gluten-free options for beer enthusiasts. Their HOPO blonde lager provides a smooth and well-rounded flavor profile, making it a delightful choice for those seeking gluten-free alternatives.
St. Peter’s Brewery
St. Peter’s Brewery boasts two gluten-free beer options: Suffolk Gold and Cream Stout. The Suffolk Gold delivers a crisp and refreshing taste, while the Cream Stout offers a rich and creamy experience. With these options, St. Peter’s Brewery caters to different tastes within the gluten-free beer market.
Brass Castle Brewery
Brass Castle Brewery prides itself on offering a diverse selection of gluten-free beers. Their range includes the Very Bad Kitty Vanilla Imperial Porter, Yorkshire Lavender, and Hoptical Illusion IPA. With these unique flavors, Brass Castle Brewery provides beer lovers with enticing gluten-free options.
These independent breweries demonstrate the innovation and commitment to quality that can be found within the gluten-free beer market. With their diverse offerings, individuals with gluten intolerance can enjoy a variety of flavors and styles without compromising on taste.
Omission Beer and the Gluten-Free Debate
Omission Beer offers an intriguing option in the gluten-free beer market. Unlike most other gluten-free beers, Omission Beer is brewed with malted barley. However, it goes through a proprietary process to remove gluten, ensuring that the gluten levels are well below the accepted international standard of 20ppm.
It’s important to note that Omission Beer cannot legally claim to be gluten-free outside of Oregon due to the use of malted barley. However, the brand is transparent about its brewing process and tests each batch to ensure gluten levels meet their high standards.
While some individuals may feel comfortable drinking Omission Beer and experience no adverse effects, others may prefer to stick to beers that are brewed with only gluten-free grains or undergo a brewing process that removes gluten at each stage. It ultimately depends on individual preferences and sensitivities.
The Omission Beer Story
Omission Beer was born out of a desire to create a gluten-free beer that didn’t compromise on taste. The founders, who themselves have a gluten intolerance, wanted to develop a beer that could be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions.
- By using malted barley in the brewing process, Omission Beer aimed to capture the traditional beer flavors that gluten-free alternatives often lack.
- The brand developed a unique process to remove gluten from their beer, ensuring that even individuals with gluten intolerance can safely enjoy their products.
- Each batch of Omission Beer is rigorously tested to ensure it contains less than 20ppm of gluten, meeting the international standard for gluten-free products.
Choosing the Right Gluten-Free Beer
While Omission Beer offers a viable option for those looking for a substitute for beer while managing gluten intolerance, it’s crucial to consider personal preferences and sensitivities.
- Some individuals may prefer to opt for beers that are brewed with only gluten-free grains from the start, giving them added peace of mind.
- Others may be comfortable with Omission Beer’s brewing process and the rigorous testing they conduct to ensure gluten levels are within safe limits.
The key is to research and experiment with different gluten-free beer options to find the one that best suits your taste and tolerance levels.
Conclusion
The UK provides a diverse range of gluten-free beer options, ensuring that individuals with gluten intolerance or following a gluten-free diet can enjoy a variety of flavors and styles. Whether it’s a crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a rich stout, there are choices to suit every preference.
However, it’s crucial for individuals to conduct their own research and consider their own sensitivities when selecting a gluten-free beer. Reactions to gluten vary from person to person, so it’s important to find a beer that aligns with one’s comfort level and dietary requirements.
One interesting option is Omission Beer, which uses malted barley but undergoes a proprietary process to remove gluten. While the beer cannot be legally designated as “gluten-free” outside of Oregon, Omission Beer ensures that its gluten levels are well below the accepted international standard. The brand’s transparent approach and thorough batch testing provide reassurance to those who choose to enjoy their beers.
Whether it’s exploring the gluten-free options available in UK supermarkets or discovering the offerings from independent breweries, individuals with gluten intolerance can enjoy a satisfying beer experience. With diligence in research and consideration of personal preferences, individuals can find the perfect gluten-free beer that not only caters to their needs but also provides a delightful drinking experience.
FAQ
What is gluten-free beer?
Gluten-free beer is beer that has been specially brewed to remove or avoid gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It is an alternative for individuals with gluten intolerance or those following a gluten-free diet.
How is gluten removed from beer?
Breweries use different methods to create gluten-free beer, including removing gluten with an enzyme during the brewing process, using only gluten-free grains, or developing a brewing process that removes gluten at each stage.
Are all gluten-free beers safe for those with coeliac disease?
In the UK, the term “gluten free” is legally protected and can only be used for products that contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, making them safe for those with coeliac disease.
What gluten-free beer options are available in UK supermarkets?
Some gluten-free beer options that can be found in UK supermarkets include Skinny Lager, Peroni Gluten Free, Free From Brewing Company’s Session IPA, Jubel Beer, Brewdog Vagabond IPA, and Celia Organic Lager.
Are there independent breweries in the UK that offer gluten-free beer?
Yes, there are several independent breweries in the UK that offer gluten-free beer, such as Bellfield Brewery, Broughton Ales, St. Peter’s Brewery, and Brass Castle Brewery.
Can individuals with gluten intolerance or following a gluten-free diet drink Omission Beer?
While Omission Beer is brewed with malted barley, it goes through a proprietary process to remove gluten, ensuring that the gluten levels are well below the accepted international standard of 20ppm. However, preferences and sensitivities may vary, and individuals should consider their own comfort level with drinking Omission Beer.
How should individuals choose a gluten-free beer?
It’s important for individuals to research and determine their own comfort level with drinking gluten-free beers, as reactions can vary from person to person. Preferences for flavor and brewing processes may also differ, so individuals should choose a gluten-free beer that suits their preferences and sensitivities.
Where can I find a variety of gluten-free beer options?
Supermarkets in the UK, as well as independent breweries, offer a wide range of gluten-free beer options. Supermarkets like ALDI, Asda, Ocado, Sainsbury’s, and Tesco carry gluten-free beers, while independent breweries like Bellfield Brewery, Broughton Ales, St. Peter’s Brewery, and Brass Castle Brewery specialize in gluten-free beer production.