Are gluten sensitivities preventing you from enjoying a cold beer? Or are you tired of the limited options available for gluten-free beers? Fortunately, there is a tasty and refreshing alternative to beer that won’t cause any gluten-related issues: cider. Made from fermented apple juice, this gluten-free drink has a naturally refreshing taste and comes in a variety of flavours, from dry to sweet and even sparking. Whether you have coeliac disease, gluten intolerance, or follow a gluten-free diet for other reasons, cider is a option.
Is all cider gluten-free?
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat and barley, which can cause inflammation and digestive issues in people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. As cider is mainly made from apples and sometimes from pears, it is naturally gluten-free and can be consumed by those who can't tolerate gluten. Beer, on the other hand, is made from gluten-containing grains. Different brands and types of beer can contain varying amounts of gluten. While gluten-free beers are on the market, they can be harder to find and less widely available than gluten-free ciders. And even then, there is a risk of cross-contamination of gluten-containing grains during the brewing process.
A few cider producers use malted barley in their process, which contains gluten. Also, some ciders are produced in facilities that handle gluten-containing grains and may therefore contain trace amounts of gluten. So while most ciders are gluten-free, there are exceptions. Make sure to check the labels carefully or ask for assistance if you need clarification.
5 Reasons Gluten-Free Cider is the Perfect Beer Alternative
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Cider is refreshing and versatile: With a variety of flavours available, from sweet to dry, cider can be used as a base for cocktails or enjoyed on its own. Its acidity and sweetness make cider the perfect drink to complement various dishes. While beer can be heavy and filling, cider is a crisp, refreshing and lighter drink.
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Cider has a lower alcohol content than beer: On average, cider typically has a lower alcohol by volume (ABV) than beer, making it a perfect alternative for those who want to enjoy a drink without getting too tipsy. However, it's worth noting that the ABV can vary depending on the cider producer and type.
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Cider has a lower calorie content: Typically, cider has fewer calories than beer, which makes it an excellent option for those watching their calorie intake. As cider is made from apples, it is more natural and nutrient-dense than beer made from processed and refined grains.
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Cider is widely available: While gluten-free beers can be hard to find, gluten-free cider is widely available in grocery stores, convenience stores and restaurants. Many popular brands offer a range of flavours and styles of gluten-free cider.
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Cider is safe from cross-contamination: As long as cider is made from gluten-free ingredients in a proper facility, gluten-containing grains are not typically used during cider production. Therefore, there is little risk of cross-contamination during the brewing process.
Why Gluten Free Cider is the Perfect Refreshment
If you are sticking to a gluten-free diet and you still want to enjoy the occasional cold and refreshing alcoholic drink, cider is the perfect option. While beer may have been the traditional choice for many, cider is a refreshing and delicious alternative that offers a range of benefits over beer. It is gluten-free, lighter, healthier and pairs well with a wide range of foods. So whether you are looking for a cold drink on a hot summer day or a base for your favourite cocktail, there are plenty of gluten-free ciders to choose from. Just be sure to check the labels carefully and opt for brands made with gluten-free ingredients, and produced in dedicated facilities to avoid trace amounts of gluten or cross-contamination, such as Showerings Cider. Cheers to a delicious and gluten-free drink!