Gluten intolerance and Celiac disease have led many beer lovers to explore gluten free beer. This rapidly growing niche offers options that are safe, delicious, and available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties.
In this detailed guide, we will explore everything about gluten free beer, including how it's made, where to buy gluten free beer, and a curated list of the best gluten free beer available today.
What Is Gluten Free Beer?
Gluten free beer is brewed without gluten-containing grains like barley, wheat, or rye. Instead, brewers use alternatives such as sorghum, millet, rice, corn, or buckwheat.
There are two types of gluten-conscious beers:
Gluten-Free Beer: Made entirely without gluten ingredients.
Gluten-Removed Beer: Brewed with traditional grains but treated with enzymes to reduce gluten to a safe level (below 20ppm).
Only gluten-free beer is safe for people with Celiac disease.
How Is Gluten Free Beer Made?
Brewing gluten free beer involves replacing traditional grains with naturally gluten-free alternatives. The brewing process stays similar in terms of fermentation, but the recipe is adjusted:
Base Grain Options: Sorghum, millet, rice, corn
Yeast: Standard brewing yeast
Flavor Additions: Hops, fruits, spices (all gluten-free)
Many top breweries use dedicated equipment to avoid cross-contamination.
Best Gluten Free Beer: Top Brands to Try
Here’s a list of the best gluten free beer options based on taste, availability, and popularity:
1. Omission Brewing Co. Lager (Gluten Removed)
Crisp, refreshing taste
Brewed with traditional barley but enzymatically treated
Not recommended for Celiac sufferers, but loved by gluten-sensitive beer fans
2. Glutenberg Blonde Ale
100% gluten free
Brewed in a dedicated gluten free facility in Canada
Uses corn, millet, and buckwheat
3. Redbridge by Anheuser-Busch
One of the first mainstream gluten free beers
Made from sorghum
Mild and light, perfect for casual drinking
4. Green's Discovery Amber Ale
Certified gluten free
Brewed in Belgium
Rich, malty flavor with caramel notes
5. Ghostfish Brewing Grapefruit IPA
Award-winning craft beer
Fruity and hoppy
Brewed in a gluten-free facility
6. New Planet Blonde Ale
Made with corn and sorghum
Crisp and smooth taste
Perfect summer beer
Where to Buy Gluten Free Beer
Wondering where to buy gluten free beer? Thanks to rising demand, gluten free beer is widely available:
In-Store Options:
Whole Foods Market
Trader Joe’s
Total Wine & More
Local health food stores
Specialty liquor shops
Online Options:
Drizly – Delivers alcohol from local stores
TotalWine.com – Nationwide delivery in the U.S.
CraftShack – Specialty craft beers
BevMo – Offers online orders and pickup
GlutenFreeMall.com – A dedicated site for gluten-free products
Before buying, check labels for “gluten-free” certification. If you have Celiac disease, avoid beers labeled only as “gluten-removed.”
Are There Any Gluten-Free Light Beers?
Yes! Several breweries make light, easy-drinking gluten free beers. Here are a few:
Redbridge Lager – Light body, sorghum-based
New Grist Pilsner – Crisp and clean taste
Glutenberg Session Ale – Lower ABV, full of flavor
Alt Brew Copper Ale Light – Lighter version of traditional ales
These beers are low in alcohol content and calories, suitable for light beer drinkers avoiding gluten.
Is Blue Moon Beer Gluten Free?
No, Blue Moon is not gluten free. It is brewed with barley, which contains gluten. Despite any filtration, it is not suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or Celiac disease.
If you enjoy wheat beers like Blue Moon, try Glutenberg Belgian White or Ghostfish Witbier for a similar taste without the gluten.
Low Carb and Non-Alcoholic Gluten Free Beers
Some consumers want gluten-free options that are both low-carb and alcohol-free. Here's what you can try:
Low Carb Gluten-Free Beers:
Bravus Oatmeal Stout (Non-Alcoholic) – Less than 100 calories
Glutenberg India Pale Ale – Medium carbs, bold flavor
Alt Brew Copper Ale Light – Gluten free and lower in carbs
Non-Alcoholic Gluten Free Options:
Partake Brewing Blonde Ale
Gruvi Golden Lager
Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn
These brands are ideal for fitness-focused or sober lifestyle individuals who still love beer.
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How Much Gluten Is Left in Regular Beer?
Most traditional beers contain anywhere from 5,000 to 15,000 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. For someone with Celiac disease, even 20 ppm can trigger symptoms.
Gluten-removed beers might test under 20 ppm, but there’s still risk due to how gluten proteins break down. If you’re gluten sensitive but not diagnosed with Celiac, these might be safe. Always consult your doctor first.
Gluten-Free Alternatives to Beer
Not into beer but want something similar? Here are gluten-free alternatives:
Hard Ciders
Made from apples or pears
Brands: Angry Orchard, Strongbow, Crispin
Hard Seltzers
Low-calorie, fruity, gluten-free
Brands: White Claw, Truly, Vizzy
Mead
Brewed with honey and yeast
Naturally gluten-free
Gluten-Free Kombucha
Slightly alcoholic fermented tea
Brands: Boochcraft, Flying Embers
Rice Wine / Sake
Fermented rice, no gluten
These drinks offer the fun and flavor of beer without the gluten risks.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gluten Free Beer
Check for Certified Labels: Look for “Certified Gluten-Free.”
Read Ingredients: Avoid anything brewed with wheat, rye, or barley.
Check the Brewery Website: Many publish gluten testing data.
Avoid Cross-Contamination: Stick to brands with dedicated equipment.
FAQs: Gluten Free Beer
1. What are some good gluten free beers?
Top picks include:
Glutenberg Blonde Ale
Ghostfish Grapefruit IPA
Redbridge Lager
New Planet Blonde Ale
Green’s Discovery Amber Ale
2. Are there any gluten-free light beers?
Yes, try:
Redbridge
New Grist Pilsner
Glutenberg Session Ale
Alt Brew Copper Ale Light
These are lower in calories and alcohol.
3. Is the beer Blue Moon gluten free?
No, Blue Moon contains barley and is not gluten free. People with gluten sensitivity should avoid it.
4. Are there any low carb non-alcoholic beers that are gluten-free?
Yes! Options include:
Partake Brewing Blonde Ale
Gruvi Golden Lager
Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn
These are low in calories and safe for gluten-sensitive people.
5. Beer is not gluten free, but how much gluten is there left in beer?
Traditional beer can have 5,000–15,000 ppm of gluten. Gluten-removed beer may test below 20 ppm but is not 100% safe for Celiacs.
6. What are some gluten-free alternatives to beer?
Try:
Cider
Hard seltzer
Mead
Sake
Kombucha
All are tasty, gluten-free, and available at most liquor stores.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Best Gluten Free Beer with Confidence
Gluten free beer has come a long way in taste and variety. Whether you want a bold IPA or a crisp lager, there’s something for every beer lover. Knowing where to buy gluten free beer and which brands to trust can make all the difference. From best gluten free beer lists to light, low-carb, or non-alcoholic options—there's no reason to miss out.
