Going against the gluten: an intro to gluten-free craft beer

Gluten-free craft beer is becoming increasingly popular as people become more aware of the potential health benefits of avoiding gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, and it can cause serious health problems for people who are sensitive to it.

There’s a growing range of brands and types of gluten-free craft beer available, but they all have one thing in common: they're made without any wheat, rye, or barley. This means that they're safe for people with gluten sensitivities to drink and they can also have a unique flavour profile that sets them apart from traditional beer.

Why are gluten-free beers becoming more popular?

There are a number of reasons why gluten-free beers are becoming more popular. One of the most obvious is that they offer a way for people to enjoy a beer without worrying about the potential health effects of gluten, which is especially important for coeliacs and those with gluten intolerances. Additionally, gluten-free beers come in a wide variety of flavours and styles, so everyone can find something they like.

The challenges of finding a coeliac-friendly craft beer

Until recently, if you asked any coeliac or gluten intolerant person what their experience was with finding a drinkable gluten-free craft beer, they probably would’ve laughed. Most options on the market were either too bitter or didn't provide the same satisfaction a regular beer would.

But over the past few years, the number of gluten-free beers available has exploded, and there are now heaps of delicious options available for people who want to enjoy a craft beer without worrying about the consequences.

How is gluten-free craft beer made?

Brewers have been making gluten-free craft beer for many years, but it has only recently become more popular due to the rise of gluten intolerances as well as those wanting to limit gluten as a dietary choice. There are a number of different ways to make gluten-free craft beer, but most brewers use one of two methods: either they replace the barley with another grain like sorghum, rice or corn, or they use a brewing process that doesn't rely on barley at all.

Some hot tips for gluten-free craft beer drinkers

There are a few things you need to keep in mind if you're looking for a gluten-free beer. Double check the label to make sure it's actually gluten-free. Some beers that are marketed as gluten-free may still contain trace amounts of gluten, so if you're coeliac, it's best to avoid these.

Second, be aware that gluten-free beers tend to have a shorter shelf life than regular beers, so you'll need to drink them relatively quickly after buying them. And finally, remember that not all gluten-free beers are created equal – you may prefer some over others, so it's worth trying a few different brands and styles to find the ones you like best.

Looking for the perfect way to sample some top-notch craft beer? Check out our Gluten-Free Guzzler Sixer which showcases a rotation of 6 absolute crackers from some banging independent Aussie craft breweries!