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Gluten-free non-alcoholic beer: the best for celiacs and intolerants
Are you celiac or gluten intolerant and also want to avoid alcohol? The non-alcoholic + gluten-free combination exists and is increasingly accessible. Here’s how to navigate it.
What does "gluten-free" mean for a beer?
Traditional beer is made with barley (and often wheat), which contain gluten. To be classified as gluten free, a beer must contain less than 20 ppm of gluten (EU limit for celiacs). There are two approaches:
- Naturally gluten-free beers: made with alternative grains like rice, millet, sorghum, buckwheat, or corn — no gluten from the start.
- De-glutenized beers: made with barley but treated with enzymes (e.g., Clarex) to reduce gluten below the threshold — caution: not always safe for severe celiacs.
How to recognize a gluten-free non-alcoholic beer
- Certification: look for the crossed grain symbol (Italian Celiac Association) or certified "gluten free" label.
- Ingredients: check that there is no untreated barley or wheat.
- Method: prefer naturally gluten-free beers over de-glutenized ones if you are a severe celiac.
- ABV: make sure it is also 0.0% or <0.5% for the non-alcoholic component.
Styles available in gluten-free non-alcoholic version
- Gluten-free Lager: the most common — light, refreshing, easy to find
- Gluten-free IPA: hoppy and aromatic — less common but growing
- Rice or sorghum beer: more neutral profile, great for those sensitive even to aromas
- Buckwheat beer: earthy and rustic notes, highly appreciated in the craft segment
Ideal occasions
- Aperitif or dinner with celiac friends
- Those following a gluten-free diet by choice (not only for celiac disease)
- Those who must avoid both alcohol and gluten for health reasons
- Athletes wanting a light and safe post-workout drink
Food pairings
Gluten-free non-alcoholic beers pair well with:
- Naturally gluten-free dishes: risottos, polenta, fish, grilled meats
- Asian cuisine (rice, sushi, curry)
- Grilled vegetables and summer salads
- Fresh cheeses and cold cuts
Looking also for gluten-free beers with alcohol? Discover the full gluten-free selection on Maltese →
Browse gluten-free non-alcoholic beers on Maltese — curated selection, shipping throughout Italy. 🍺
