Did you know that one in 100 people in the UK has coeliac disease, a condition that requires a gluten-free diet? Many others also have to avoid gluten due to non-coeliac gluten sensitivity. The good news is that there is a growing selection of gluten-free beers available for those with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
Traditionally, beer is made with barley and wheat, which contain gluten. However, breweries are now producing gluten-free beers using naturally gluten-free grains or processing regular beer with enzymes to reduce the gluten content. To be certified gluten-free, beers must contain 20ppm or less of gluten. In the UK, there are several breweries offering a wide range of gluten-free beers, from IPAs to lagers and ales, suitable for those with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
Key Takeaways:
- Gluten-free beers are made using naturally gluten-free grains or processed with enzymes to reduce the gluten content.
- Gluten-free beers must contain 20ppm or less of gluten to be certified.
- Several UK breweries offer a wide range of gluten-free beers, from IPAs to lagers and ales.
- Gluten-free beers can be found in supermarkets, online retailers, specialist beer shops, and independent breweries.
- Gluten-free beer brands are available worldwide, offering a variety of options for individuals with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
Brewing Gluten-Free Beer
When it comes to brewing gluten-free beer, there are two main methods. The first involves using naturally gluten-free cereals such as sorghum, quinoa, or rice as the base instead of using barley or wheat. This allows breweries to create beer that is naturally free from gluten. The second method involves brewing a regular beer and then using an enzyme called Brewers Clarex to break down the gluten. This process helps reduce the gluten content in the beer, making it safe for those with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
To ensure that gluten-free beers meet the necessary standards, they must contain 20ppm (parts per million) or less of gluten. Coeliac UK, a leading charity for people with coeliac disease, recommends laboratory testing to accurately measure the gluten content in beer. Gluten-free beers that meet the certification requirements are then permitted to display Coeliac UK’s licensed crossed-grain symbol, giving consumers confidence in their gluten-free status.
Top Gluten-Free Beers to Try
In the UK, there is a wide range of gluten-free beers available for celiac-friendly sipping. Whether you prefer a hoppy IPA, a refreshing lager, a flavorful pale ale, a rich stout, or a unique craft beer, there are options to suit every taste. Here are some popular gluten-free beers that are worth trying:
- Arbor Motueka: A gluten-free IPA with bold hop flavors and a citrusy aroma.
- Peroni Gluten-Free Lager: A crisp and refreshing lager with a light, golden color.
- Green’s Grand India Pale Ale: This gluten-free ale pairs well with a variety of foods and offers a complex blend of hop bitterness and fruity notes.
- Chiltern Brewery Three Hundreds Dark Old Ale: A delicious gluten-free stout with a rich, malty flavor.
- First Chop Brewing Arm: A brewery that specializes in producing exclusively gluten-free beers, offering a wide range of styles to choose from.
- Brass Castle: Another brewery that focuses on gluten-free brewing, known for their innovative and flavorful craft beers.
- Magic Rock Brewing: Craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy their gluten-free options, showcasing their commitment to quality and taste.
- Wild Craft Brewing: A brewery dedicated to producing gluten-free craft beers, using only the finest ingredients.
Explore these gluten-free beer options and discover new favorites within the expanding world of celiac-friendly brewing. Now you can enjoy a wide range of delicious beers without compromising your dietary needs.
Where to Buy Gluten-Free Beers
Gluten-free beers can be found in various locations across the UK. If you’re wondering where to buy gluten-free beer, you have several options:
- Supermarkets: Many supermarkets, such as Sainsbury’s and Waitrose, stock gluten-free beers like Peroni gluten-free lager. You can find them in the beer aisle or the free-from section.
- Online retailers: If you prefer the convenience of shopping from home, online retailers like Amazon offer a wide selection of gluten-free beers. With just a few clicks, you can have your favorite gluten-free beers delivered to your doorstep.
- Specialist beer shops: If you’re looking for a more specialized selection, consider visiting a specialist beer shop. These shops often carry a range of gluten-free options from various breweries, giving you more choices to explore.
- Independent breweries: Some independent breweries produce their own gluten-free beers. These breweries may have their own retail outlets or offer their products for sale online. You can contact them directly or visit their websites to find out where to buy their gluten-free beers.
When searching for a stockist near you, you can use online directories or contact the breweries directly for more information. Whether you prefer the familiar aisles of a supermarket or the personalized service of a specialist shop, there are plenty of options for buying gluten-free beers in the UK.
Gluten-Free Beer Brands Around the World
The gluten-free beer market is not limited to the UK. There are many gluten-free beer brands available worldwide. Here are some notable options from different countries:
- In the USA, breweries like Ghostfish Brewing and Ground Breaker Brewing specialize in gluten-free beers.
- Canada is home to breweries like Glutenberg and Snowdonia, offering a variety of gluten-free options.
- In Europe, you can find gluten-free beers from breweries like Green’s in Belgium and Brass Castle in the UK.
- Australia has its own gluten-free beers from companies like O’Brien and Two Bays Brewing Co.
- New Zealand also boasts breweries like Rebellion Brewing that produce gluten-free options.
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of gluten-free beer brands available internationally. Whether you’re in the UK or exploring the world, you can enjoy a refreshing gluten-free brew from a variety of breweries.
Conclusion
The gluten-free beer market has seen significant growth in recent years, providing a wide range of options for individuals with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease. Breweries worldwide have recognized the demand for gluten-free beer and are crafting delicious and high-quality options to cater to this growing market.
In the United Kingdom, breweries like Arbor Motueka, Peroni, and Green’s offer an impressive selection of gluten-free beers that cater to various tastes and preferences. From crisp IPAs to refreshing lagers, there is something for everyone looking to enjoy a gluten-free beer.
It is important to note that not all beers labeled as gluten-free are suitable for those with coeliac disease. To ensure safety, it is recommended to look for Coeliac UK’s licensed crossed-grain symbol, which indicates that the beer meets the certification requirements for being gluten-free.
With the gluten-free beer market expanding and more options becoming available, now is the perfect time to explore the world of gluten-free beers. From local breweries to international favorites, there are ample opportunities to discover the best gluten-free beers and indulge in a pint that is both safe and enjoyable.
FAQ
Are there any gluten-free beers available?
Yes, there are several breweries in the UK that offer a wide range of gluten-free beers suitable for those with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
How is gluten-free beer produced?
Gluten-free beer can be produced using naturally gluten-free cereals like sorghum, quinoa, or rice as the base, or by brewing a regular beer and then processing it with an enzyme called Brewers Clarex to break down the gluten.
What are some popular gluten-free beer options in the UK?
Some popular gluten-free beer options in the UK include Arbor Motueka (gluten-free IPA), Peroni (gluten-free lager), Green’s Grand India Pale Ale, and Chiltern Brewery’s Three Hundreds Dark Old Ale.
Where can I buy gluten-free beers?
Gluten-free beers can be found in supermarkets like Sainsbury’s and Waitrose, as well as online retailers like Amazon. Specialist beer shops and independent breweries also stock a range of gluten-free options. Online directories and contacting breweries directly are useful for finding the nearest stockist.
Are there gluten-free beer brands available worldwide?
Yes, there are many gluten-free beer brands available worldwide. Breweries like Ghostfish Brewing and Ground Breaker Brewing in the USA, Glutenberg and Snowdonia in Canada, Green’s in Belgium, Brass Castle in the UK, O’Brien and Two Bays Brewing Co. in Australia, and Rebellion Brewing in New Zealand are just a few examples.
