Is Athletic Beer Gluten-Free?
No, Athletic Brewing Company’s beers are gluten-reduced, not technically gluten-free. They use a process to drastically lower the gluten content, resulting in beers that test below the 20 parts per million (ppm) threshold generally considered acceptable for people with celiac disease, although individual tolerances vary.
Understanding Gluten Reduction in Beer
Athletic Brewing Company has gained immense popularity for its non-alcoholic craft beers, offering a flavorful alternative to traditional brews. A key aspect of their appeal is the reduced gluten content. However, understanding the nuances of “gluten-reduced” versus “gluten-free” is crucial for individuals managing gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
The Gluten Reduction Process: How It Works
Traditional beer is made from barley, a gluten-containing grain. Athletic Brewing Co. utilizes barley in their brewing process, but they employ a specific enzyme called Clarex that breaks down gluten proteins during fermentation. This process significantly reduces the gluten content in the final product.
The process involves these key steps:
- Brewing: Traditional brewing methods are used with barley as the primary grain.
- Enzyme Introduction: Clarex enzyme is added during fermentation.
- Gluten Breakdown: The enzyme breaks down gluten proteins into smaller peptides.
- Testing: Batches are rigorously tested to ensure gluten levels are below 20 ppm.
- Packaging: Beers that meet the standard are packaged and distributed.
Benefits of Gluten-Reduced Beer
For many individuals with gluten sensitivity or those following a gluten-reduced diet, Athletic Brewing Company’s beers can be a welcome addition to their beverage options. The reduced gluten content often allows them to enjoy the taste of beer without experiencing adverse reactions. However, it is important to emphasize that everyone’s sensitivity is different and medical advice should always be followed.
Why Not “Gluten-Free” Certified?
Despite consistently testing below the 20 ppm threshold, Athletic Brewing Company cannot label their beers as “gluten-free” in the United States. This is because the FDA requires that “gluten-free” products must not contain any intentionally added gluten and cannot be made with gluten-containing grains like barley. Since barley is the primary ingredient, even though the gluten is broken down, the beer doesn’t meet the official “gluten-free” standard.
Common Misconceptions and Important Considerations
A common misconception is that all gluten-reduced beers are safe for everyone with celiac disease. While the reduced gluten content is significantly lower, some individuals with celiac disease may still react to even trace amounts of gluten or the resulting peptides. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine individual tolerance levels and assess whether gluten-reduced beer is suitable.
Another point of confusion lies in the testing methods. The ELISA test commonly used to measure gluten levels can sometimes underestimate the amount of gluten present, especially when the gluten has been broken down into smaller fragments.
Comparing Gluten Levels: Athletic vs. Traditional Beer
The following table provides a comparison of typical gluten levels in different types of beer:
| Beer Type | Typical Gluten Level (ppm) |
|---|---|
| Traditional Beer | 40-800+ |
| Gluten-Reduced Beer (e.g., Athletic) | <20 |
| Gluten-Free Beer (Grain Alternatives) | <20 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Athletic Beer and Gluten
Is Athletic Brewing Company beer safe for people with celiac disease?
While Athletic Brewing Company’s beers test below 20 ppm, considered safe by many celiac organizations, individual tolerances vary. It’s crucial to consult with your doctor before consuming any gluten-reduced product if you have celiac disease. Some individuals may still react, even to trace amounts of gluten fragments.
How does Athletic Brewing Company reduce gluten in its beer?
They use an enzyme called Clarex during the fermentation process. This enzyme breaks down gluten proteins into smaller peptides, reducing the overall gluten content in the final product.
What is the difference between “gluten-free” and “gluten-reduced”?
“Gluten-free” products are made without any gluten-containing ingredients. “Gluten-reduced” products, like Athletic Brewing Company’s beers, use gluten-containing ingredients (barley) but employ a process to lower the gluten content below a certain threshold (typically 20 ppm).
Why doesn’t Athletic Brewing Company label its beer as “gluten-free”?
Because the FDA regulations require that “gluten-free” products be made without any gluten-containing ingredients. Since Athletic uses barley, a gluten-containing grain, they cannot call it “gluten free” even though the amount of gluten is minimal.
How is the gluten content in Athletic Brewing Company’s beers tested?
They use ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) testing to measure the gluten content of their beers. These tests are designed to detect the presence of gluten proteins.
What does “ppm” mean in relation to gluten levels?
“Ppm” stands for parts per million, which is a unit used to measure the concentration of a substance, in this case, gluten. A lower ppm value indicates a lower gluten content.
Can I trust the 20 ppm threshold for gluten-free products?
While 20 ppm is the internationally recognized standard for “gluten-free” by organizations like the Celiac Disease Foundation, individual tolerances vary. Some individuals may be more sensitive than others and react to levels below 20 ppm.
Are there any risks associated with drinking gluten-reduced beer if I have celiac disease?
Potential risks include triggering an immune response, even with low gluten levels. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to more severe reactions. Always consult your doctor to understand your individual risk.
Where can I find information about the gluten content of specific Athletic Brewing Company beers?
Athletic Brewing Company publishes information about the gluten content of their beers on their website. Look for specific product details, which may include testing results and disclaimers.
Are there any other brands of gluten-reduced beer besides Athletic Brewing Company?
Yes, several other breweries produce gluten-reduced beers. It is important to research each brand’s gluten reduction process and testing methods.
What should I do if I experience symptoms after drinking Athletic Brewing Company beer?
Stop consuming the beer immediately and consult with your doctor. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. Keep in mind that correlation does not equal causation, and reactions can occur for a variety of reasons.
Does the alcohol content of Athletic Brewing Company’s beers affect their gluten levels?
The alcohol content does not directly affect the gluten levels. The gluten reduction process occurs during fermentation, which also produces alcohol.