Frequently Asked Questions

What is gluten free beer?

Gluten free beer is beer that is either brewed without gluten-containing grains or has had gluten removed to meet legal gluten free standards (typically under 20 parts per million).

How is gluten free beer made?

There are two main methods: one uses naturally gluten free grains like sorghum, millet or rice, and the other uses barley-based beer treated with enzymes to break down gluten during brewing.

Is gluten free beer completely gluten free?

Some gluten free beers are fully gluten free (no barley or wheat used), while others are “gluten removed” and made from barley but processed to reduce gluten to very low levels.

What grains are used in gluten free beer?

Common gluten free grains include sorghum, rice, millet, buckwheat, corn and quinoa, which replace traditional barley or wheat.

What does gluten free beer taste like?

Modern gluten free beers can taste very similar to regular beer, with styles ranging from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs, although some may have a slightly different malt character depending on ingredients used.

Who drinks gluten free beer?

It is primarily made for people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, but it is also enjoyed by people choosing to reduce gluten in their diet.

Is gluten free beer safe for coeliacs?

Naturally gluten free beers are generally considered safe, while gluten removed beers may not be suitable for all coeliacs depending on sensitivity, so checking labelling is important.

What are popular gluten free beer styles?

Common styles include lagers, pale ales, IPAs, stouts and session beers, with many craft breweries now offering dedicated gluten free ranges.

Does gluten free beer taste different from regular beer?

It can, but high-quality modern gluten free beers are often very close in flavour to traditional beers, especially in hop-forward styles like IPA.