For years, people have been debating whether or not beer contains gluten. Some say that it does and some say that it doesn’t. So, what’s the truth? Is there gluten in beer? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It’s what gives bread its chewy texture and beer its foamy head. When people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity consume gluten, it can cause them to experience abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue. For these people, it’s very important to avoid consuming any products that contain gluten.
So, What About Beer?
The short answer is that it depends on the beer. Traditional beers are brewed with malted barley and wheat, which do contain gluten. However, there are now a number of gluten-free beers on the market that are made with alternative ingredients like sorghum, buckwheat, and rice. These beers are safe for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity to drink.
If you’re not sure whether or not a particular beer contains gluten, you can always check the label. Most breweries now list ingredients and allergens on their website or on the label of their bottles and cans.
Next time you’re out at the bar with your friends debating whether or not beer contains gluten, you can settle the argument once and for all—it depends on the beer. Traditional beers brewed with malted barley and wheat do contain gluten, but there are now many delicious gluten-free options available for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Cheers!
