Shopping and label-reading with celiac disease is easier with a reliable safe list. This curated, regularly updated guide highlights foods and ingredients that are naturally gluten-free or typically gluten-free when used in foods, beverages, cosmetics, or supplements. Always check labels and contact manufacturers if you’re unsure. Be sure to also see our Forbidden Gluten Food List (Unsafe Ingredients).

A
Acacia Gum
Acesulfame K
Acesulfame Potassium
Acetanisole
Acetophenone
Acorn Quercus
Adipic Acid
Adzuki Bean
Acacia Gum
Agar
Agave
Ajinomoto (msg)
Albumen
Alcohol (Distilled Spirits)
Alfalfa
Algae
Algin
Alginic Acid
Alginate
Alkalized Cocoa
Allicin
Almond Nut
Alpha-amylase
Alpha-lactalbumin
Aluminum
Amaranth
Ambergris
Ammonium Hydroxide
Ammonium Phosphate
Ammonium Sulphate
Amylose
Amylopectin
Annatto
Annatto Color
Apple Cider Vinegar
Arabic Gum
Arrowroot
Artichokes
Artificial Butter Flavor
Artificial Flavoring
Artificial Flavors
Artocarpus Altilis (breadfruit)
Ascorbic Acid
Aspartame (can cause IBS symptoms)
Aspartic Acid
Aspic
Astragalus Gummifer
Atadwe (tigernut)
Avena Sativia (Oats³)
Avena Sativia Extract (from Oats³)
Avidin
Azodicarbonamide

B
Bajra (pearl millet)
Bajra flour (pearl millet flour)
Baking Soda
Balsamic Vinegar
Beeswax
Beans
Bean, Adzuki
Bean, Hyacinth
Bean, Lentil
Bean, Mung
Bean Romano (Chickpea)
Bean Tepary
Benzoic acid
Besan (Chickpea)
Beta Glucan (from Oats)
Betaine
Beta Carotene
BHA
BHT
Bicarbonate of Soda
Biotin
Blue Cheese
Breadfruit (artocarpus altilis)
Brown Sugar
Buckwheat
Butter (check additives)
Butylated Hydroxyanisole
Butyl Compounds

C
Calcium Acetate
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium Caseinate
Calcium Chloride
Calcium Disodium
Calcium Glutamate (E 623) - msg
Calcium Hydroxide
Calcium Lactate
Calcium Laurate
Calcium Pantothenate
Calcium Phosphate
Calcium Propionate
Calcium Silicate
Calcium Sorbate
Calcium Stearoyl Lactylate
Calcium Stearate
Calcium Sulfate
Calrose
Camphor
Cane Sugar
Cane Vinegar
Canola (Rapeseed)
Canola Oil (Rapeseed Oil)
Caprylic Acid
Carbonated Water
Carboxymethyl Cellulose
Caramel Color
Caramel Flavoring
Carmine
Carnauba Wax
Carob Bean
Carob Bean Gum
Carob Flour
Carrageenan (E 407) - msg
Carrageenan Chondrus Crispus
Casein
Cassava Manihot Esculenta
Castor Oil
Catalase
Cellulose¹
Cellulose Ether
Cellulose Gum
Cetyl Alcohol
Cetyl Stearyl Alcohol
Champagne Vinegar
Channa (Chickpea)
Chana Flour (Chickpea Flour)
Cheeses - (most, but check ingredients)
Chestnuts
Chickpea
Chlorella
Chocolate Liquor
Choline Chloride
Chromium Citrate
Chufa (tigernut)
Chymosin
Citric Acid
Citrus Red No. 2
Cochineal
Cocoa
Cocoa Butter
Coconut
Coconut Vinegar
Coconut Aminos
Collagen
Colloidal Silicon Dioxide
Confectioner's Glaze
Copernicia Cerifera
Copper Sulphate
Corn
Corn Gluten
Corn Masa Flour
Corn Meal
Corn Flour
Corn Starch
Corn Sugar
Corn Sugar Vinegar
Corn Syrup
Corn Syrup Solids
Corn Swetener
Corn Vinegar
Corn Zein
Cortisone
Cotton Seed
Cotton Seed Oil
Cowitch
Cowpea
Cream of Tartar
Croscarmellose Sodium
Crospovidone
Curds
Cyanocobalamin
Cyperus esculentus (tigernut)
Cysteine, L

D
Dal (Lentils)
D-Alpha-tocopherol
Dasheen Flour (Taro)
Dates
D-Calcium Pantothenate
Delactosed Whey
Demineralized Whey
Desamidocollagen
Dextran
Dextrin
Dextrose
Diglycerides
Dioctyl Sodium
Dioctyl Sodium Solfosuccinate
Dipotassium Phosphate
Disodium Guanylate
Disodium Inosinate
Disodium Phosphate
Distilled Alcohols
Distilled Vinegar
Distilled White Vinegar
Docusate Sodium
Dutch Processed Cocoa

E
Earth Almond (tigernut)
EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid)
Eggs
Egg Yolks
Elastin
Erythritol
Erythorbic Acid
Ester Gum
Ethyl Alcohol
Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid
Ethyl Maltol
Ethyl Vanillin
Expeller Pressed Canola Oil

F
FD&C Blue No. 1 Dye
FD&C Blue No. 1 Lake
FD&C Blue No. 2 Dye
FD&C Blue No. 2 Lake
FD&C Green No. 3 Dye
FD&C Green No. 3 Lake
FD&C Red No. 3 Dye
FD&C Red No. 40 Dye
FD&C Red No. 40 Lake
FD&C Yellow No. 5 Dye
FD&C Yellow No. 6 Dye
FD&C Yellow No. 6 Lake
Ferric Orthophosphate
Ferrous Gluconate
Ferrous Fumerate
Ferrous Lactate
Ferrous Sulfate
Fish (fresh)
Flaked Rice
Flax
Folacin
Folate
Flavoring
Flavoring Extracts
Folic Acid-Folacin
Fonio (millet)
Food Starch
Food Starch Modified
Formaldehyde
Fructose
Fruit (including dried)
Fruit Vinegar
Fumaric Acid

G
Galactose
Garbanzo Beans
Gelatin
Glucoamylase
Gluconolactone (Glucono-δ-Lactone)
Gluconolactone/Calcium Gluconate
Glucose
Glucose Syrup
Glutamate (E 620) - msg
Glutamic acid (E 620) - msg
Glutamine (amino acid)
Glutinous Rice
Glutinous Rice Flour
Glycerides
Glycerin
Glycerol Monooleate
Glycol Monosterate
Glycol
Glycolic acid
Gram flour (chick peas)
Grape Skin Extract
Grits, Corn
Guar Gum
Gum Acacia
Gum Arabic
Gum Base
Gum Tragacanth

H
Hemp
Hemp Seeds
Herbs
Herb Vinegar
Hexanedioic Acid
High Fructose Corn Syrup
Hominy
Honey
Hops
Horseradish (Pure)
HPP
HVP
Hyacinth Bean
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Hydrolyzed Caseinate
Hydrolyzed Meat Protein
Hydrolyzed Plant Protein
Hydrolyzed Protein
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Hydroxypropyl Cellulose
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Hypromellose

I
Illepe
Iodine
Inulin
Invert Sugar
Iron Ammonium Citrate
Isinglass
Isolated Soy Protein
Isomalt

J
Job's Tears
Jowar (Sorghum)

K
Karaya Gum
Kasha (roasted buckwheat)
Keratin
K-Carmine Color
K-Gelatin
Koshihikari (rice)
Kudzu
Kudzu Root Starch

L
Lactalbumin Phosphate
Lactase
Lactic Acid
Lactitol
Lactose
Lactulose
Lanolin
Lard
L-cysteine
Lecithin
Lemon Grass
Lentils
Licorice
Licorice Extract
Lipase
L-leucine
L-lysine
L-methionine
Locust Bean Gum
L-tryptophan

M
Magnesium Carbonate
Magnesium Glutamate (E 625)
Magnesium Hydroxide
Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium Stearate
Maize
Maize Waxy
Malic Acid
Maltitol
Maltodextrin (except in pharmaceuticals)
Maltitol 
Maltol
Maltose
Manganese Sulfate
Manioc
Masa
Masa Flour
Masa Harina
Meat (fresh)
Medium Chain Triglycerides
Menhaden Oil
Methyl Cellulose²
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Micro-particulated Egg White Protein
Milk
Milk Protein Isolate
Millet
Milo (Sorghum)
Mineral Oil
Mineral Salts
Mixed Tocopherols
Modified Food Starch
Modified Starch
Molybdenum Amino Acid Chelate
Monoammonium Glutamate (E 624) - msg
Monocalcium Phosphate
Monoglycerides
Mono and Diglycerides
Monopotassium Glutamate (E 622) - msg
Monopotassium Phosphate
Monosaccharides
Monosodium Glutamate (E 621) - msg
Monostearates
MSG
Mung Bean
Musk
Mustard Flour
Myristic Acid

N
Natrium Glutamate (msg)
Natural Flavoring
Natural Flavors
Natural Smoke Flavor
Niacin-Niacinamide
Neotame
Niacin
Niacinamide
Nitrates
Nitrous Oxide
Non-fat Milk
Nuts (except wheat, rye & barley)
Nut, Acron
Nut, Almond
Nutritional Yeast

O
Oats
Oils and Fats
Oleic Acid
Oleoresin
Olestra
Oleyl Alcohol/Oil
Orange B
Oryzanol

P
Palmitic Acid
Pantothenic Acid
Papain
Paprika
Paraffin
Patially Hydrogenated Cottonseed Oil
Patially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil
Peas
Pea - Chick
Pea - Cow
Pea Flour
Pea Starch
Peanuts
Peanut Flour
Pearl Millet
Pectin (E 440)
Pectinase
Peppermint Oil
Peppers
Pepsin
Peru Balsam
Petrolatum
PGPR (Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate)
Phenylalanine
Phosphoric Acid
Phosphoric Glycol
Pigeon Peas
Polenta
Polydextrose
Polyethylene Glycol
Polyglycerol
Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate (PGPR)
Polysorbates
Polysorbate 60
Polysorbate 80
Polyvinyl Alcohol
Potassium Benzoate
Potassium Caseinate
Potassium Citrate
Potassium Iodide
Potassium Lactate
Potassium Matabisulphite
Potassium Sorbate
Potatoes
Potato Flour
Potato Starch
Potato Protein
Povidone
Prinus
Pristane
Propolis
Propylene Glycol
Propylene Glycol Monosterate
Propyl Gallate
Protease
Psyllium
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride

Q
Quinoa
Quinoa Flour
Quinoa Flakes

R
Ragi
Raisin Vinegar
Rape
Recaldent
Reduced Iron
Rennet
Rennet Casein
Resinous Glaze
Reticulin
Riboflavin
Rice
Rice (Enriched)
Rice Flour
Rice Starch
Rice Syrup
Rice Protein
Rice Vinegar
Ricinoleic Acid
Romano Bean (chickpea)
Rosematta
Rosin
Royal Jelly
Rice Bran Oil
Red Palm Oil

S
Saccharin
Saffron
Sago
Sago Palm
Sago Flour
Sago Starch
Saifun (bean threads)
Salt
Seaweed
Seeds (except wheat, rye & barley)
Seed - Sesame
Seed - Sunflower
Shea
Sherry Vinegar
Silicon Dioxide
Simethicone
Smoke Flavoring
Soba (be sure its 100% buckwheat)
Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate
Sodium Acetate
Sodium Alginate
Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium Caseinate (msg)
Sodium Citrate
Sodium Erythrobate
Sodium Hexametaphosphate
Sodium Hydrogen Glutamate (msg)
Sodium Lactate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Metabisulphite
Sodium Nitrate
Sodium Phosphate
Sodium Polyphosphate
Sodium Silaco Aluminate
Sodium Stearyl Fumarate
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
Sodium Sulphite
Sodium Stannate
Sodium Tripolyphosphate
Sorbic Acid
Sorbitan Monostearate
Sorbitol-Mannitol (can cause IBS symptoms)
Sorghum
Sorghum Flour
Soy
Soybean
Soy Lecithin
Soy Protein
Soy Protein Concentrate
Soy Protein Isolate
Spices (pure)
Spirits (Specific Types)
Spirit Vinegar
Starch (the single word ingredient is, by law, cornstarch)
Stearates
Stearamide
Stearamine
Stearic Acid
Stearyl Lactate
Stevia
Subflower Seed
Succotash (corn and beans)
Sucralose
Sucrose
Sulfosuccinate
Sulfites
Sulfur Dioxide
Sweet Chestnut Flour
Sunflower Lecithin
Sesame Oil
Avocado Oil
Grapeseed Oil

T
Tagatose
Tallow
Tapioca
Tapioca Flour
Tapioca Starch
Tara Gum
Taro
Tarro
Tarrow Root
Tartaric Acid
Tartrazine
TBHQ is Tetra or Tributylhydroquinone
Tea
Tea-Tree Oil
Teff
Teff Flour
Tepary Bean
Textured Soy Protein
Textured Vegetable Protein
Thiamin Hydrochloride
Thiamine Mononitrate
Thiamine Hydrochloride
Titanium Dioxide
Tofu (Soy Curd)
Tolu Balsam
Torula Yeast (msg)
Tragacanth
Tragacanth Gum
Triacetin
Tricalcium Phosphate
Tri-Calcium Phosphate
Trypsin
Turmeric (Kurkuma)
TVP
Tyrosine

U
Urad/Urid Beans
Urad/Urid Dal (peas) Vegetables
Urad/Urid flour
Urd

V
Vinegar (All except Malt)
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla Flavoring
Vanillin
Vetsin (msg)
Vinegars (Specific Types - Except Malt Vinegar)
Vitamin A (retinol)
Vitamin A Palmitate
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B6
Vitamin D
Vitamin E Acetate
Monk Fruit Extract (Luo Han Guo)
Allulose

W
Waxy Maize
Whey
Whey Protein
Whey Protein Concentrate
Whey Protein Isolate
White Vinegar
Wines
Wine Vinegars (& Balsamic)
Wild Rice

X
Xanthan Gum
Xylitol

Y
Yam Flour
Yeast (except brewer's yeast)
Yeast Food (msg)
Yeast Nutrient (msg)
Yellow Nutsedge (tigernut)
Yogurt (plain, unflavored)
Yogurt Cultures

Z
Zinc Oxide
Zinc Proteinate
Zinc Stearate
Zinc Sulfate

• 1) Cellulose is a carbohydrate polymer of D-glucose. It is the structural material of plants, such as wood in trees. It contains no gluten protein.
• 2) Methyl cellulose is a chemically modified form of cellulose that makes a good substitute for gluten in rice-based breads, etc.
• 3) Oats are naturally gluten-free but commonly cross-contacted with wheat, barley, or rye. Choose oats specifically labeled gluten-free; some people with celiac disease may still be sensitive to oats—consult your clinician if unsure.

If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s crucial to know which ingredients are unsafe and forbidden. This master list of ingredients that contain gluten, or may contain gluten depending on processing, is kept up to date for your safety. Use it as a reference when checking food labels, cosmetics, supplements, and even prescription or over-the-counter medications. When in doubt, always verify with the manufacturer. Be sure to also see our Safe Gluten-Free Food List (Safe Ingredients).

A
Abyssinian Hard (Wheat triticum durum)
Atta Flour
Autolyzed yeast (msg)
Autolyzed Yeast Extract (msg)

B
Barley Grass (can contain seeds)
Barley Hordeum vulgare
Barley Malt
Beer (most contain barley or wheat)
Bleached Flour
Bran (wheat, rye or barley bran)
Bread Flour
Brewer's Yeast
Brown Flour
Bulgur (Bulgar Wheat/Nuts)
Bulgur Wheat
Baking Powder²

C
Cereal Binding
Chilton
Club Wheat (Triticum aestivum subspecies compactum)
Coloring²
Common Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Cookie Crumbs
Cookie Dough
Cookie Dough Pieces
Couscous
Criped Rice

D
Dinkle (Spelt)
Disodium Wheatgermamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate
Durum wheat (Triticum durum)
Dry Roasted Nuts²

E
Edible Coatings
Edible Films
Edible Starch
Einkorn (Triticum monococcum)
Emmer (Triticum dicoccon)
Emulsifiers²
Enriched Bleached Flour
Enriched Bleached Wheat Flour
Enriched Flour
Enzymes²

F
Farik
Farina
Farina Graham
Farro
Fat Replacer²
Filler
Flour (normally this is wheat)
Freekeh
Frikeh
Fu (dried wheat gluten)

G
Germ (wheat, rye or barley bran)
Graham Flour
Granary Flour
Gravy Cubes²
Groats (barley, wheat)
Glucose Syrup²
Gluten-derived Excipients (in medications)²

H
Hard Wheat
Heeng
Hing
Hordeum Chilense (Wild Barley)
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten²
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein²
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol²
Hydrolyzed Wheat Starch²
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Hydroxypropylated Starch²
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate²

K
Kamut (Pasta wheat)
Kecap Manis (Soy Sauce)²
Ketjap Manis (Soy Sauce)²
Kluski Pasta

M
Maida (Indian wheat flour)
Malt
Malted Barley Flour
Malted Milk
Malt Extract
Malt Syrup
Malt Flavoring
Malt Vinegar
Macha Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Matza
Matzah
Matzo
Matzo Semolina
Meripro 711
Mir
Miso²
Modified Starch²

N
Natural Juices²
Non-dairy Creamer²
Nishasta

O
Oriental Wheat (Triticum turanicum)
Orzo Pasta

P
Pasta
Pearl Barley
Persian Wheat (Triticum carthlicum)
Perungayam
Poulard Wheat (Triticum turgidum)
Polish Wheat (Triticum polonicum)
Pregelatinized Starch²
Protein Hydrolysates²

R
Rice Malt (if barley or Koji are used)
Roux
Rusk
Rye

S
Seafood Analogs²
Seasonings²
Seitan
Semolina
Semolina Triticum
Shot Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Small Spelt
Spirits (Specific Types)
Spelt (Triticum spelta)
Sprouted Wheat or Barley
Sphingolipids²
Stabilizers²
Starch (unspecified source)^1,2
Stearyldimoniumhydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Stock Cubes²
Strong Flour
Suet in Packets
Suet (general)²

T
Tabbouleh
Tabouli
Teriyaki Sauce²
Timopheevi Wheat (Triticum timopheevii)
Tocopherols²
Triticale X triticosecale
Triticum Durum (Durum Wheat)
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Flour Lipids
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil
Tritordeum (combination of durum wheat - Triticum Durum - and wild barley (Hordeum Chilense)

U
Udon (wheat noodles)
Unbleached Flour

V
Vavilovi Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Vegetable Broth²
Vegetable Gum²
Vegetable Protein²
Vegetable Starch²
Vital Wheat Gluten
Vitamins²

W
Wheat, Abyssinian Hard triticum durum
Wheat Amino Acids
Wheat Bran Extract
Wheat, Bulgur
Wheat Durum Triticum
Wheat Germ Extract
Wheat Germ Glycerides
Wheat Germ Oil
Wheat Germamidopropyldimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Wheat Grass (can contain seeds)
Wheat Nuts
Wheat Protein
Wheat Starch
Wheat Triticum aestivum
Wheat Triticum Monococcum
Wheat (Triticum Vulgare) Bran Extract
Whole-Meal Flour
Wild Barley (Hordeum Chilense)
Wild Einkorn (Triticum boeotictim)
Wild Emmer (Triticum dicoccoides)

Y
Yeast Extract (msg)

Footnotes:
1) If this ingredient is made in North America it is likely to be gluten-free.
2) Can utilize a gluten-containing grain or by-product in the manufacturing process, or as an ingredient.

Celiac.com 08/29/2020 (Updated on 09/09/2020) - According to the FDA the term "Natural Flavoring" defines a broad group of things that can be used in foods to give them more flavor:

• "(3) The term natural flavor or natural flavoring means the essential oil, oleoresin, essence or extractive, protein hydrolysate, distillate, or any product of roasting, heating or enzymolysis, which contains the flavoring constituents derived from a spice, fruit or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof, whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional. Natural flavors, include the natural essence or extractives obtained from plants listed in subpart A of part 582 of this chapter, and the substances listed in 172.510 of this chapter."

For those with celiac disease, natural flavoring is considered to be gluten-free, and if wheat, rye or barley were used to make the natural flavoring it would need to be disclosed on the ingredient label in foods that are labelled "gluten-free." If wheat were used to make natural flavoring it would always need to be disclosed, even on products not labelled gluten-free. For those with serious allergies there are additional concerns about the many ingredients that can be used to make natural flavoring, and because many other foods can be used in combination with these ingredients to make them: "...they consist of one or more of the following, used alone or in combination with flavoring substances and adjuvants generally recognized as safe in food, previously sanctioned for such use, or regulated in any section of this part."

"Natural flavors" are a common name for Monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is itself a trade name for sodium hydrogen glutamate. MSG is gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease. MSG appears on Celiac.com's list of Safe Gluten-Free Ingredients, and plenty of people have no problems when eating MSG.

MSG Can Cause Reactions in Some People

In some people, MSG can cause adverse reactions, with symptoms including, facial numbness or pressure, heart racing, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, wheezing or burning sensations. For this reason, many people, both with and without celiac disease, prefer to avoid MSG. 

Other names for Natural Flavorings include:

• Artificial Flavoring
• Artificial Flavors
• Flavoring
• Natural Flavoring
• Natural Flavors
• Natural Smoke Flavor

In addition to "natural flavors," other names for MSG include:

• Flavoring
• Natural Flavor
• Natural Flavorings
• Natural Beef Flavor
• Natural Chicken Flavor
• Natural Beef Flavor
• Chicken Flavoring
• Seasoning
• Spices
• Enzymes 

Source:

• FDA Code of Federal Regulations Title 21

Celiac.com 08/19/2020 - The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ruled that distilled foods and spirits made from gluten-containing grains can be labelled as ‘gluten-free.’ The FDA ruling covers fermented and distilled foods, or foods that contain fermented or distilled ingredients, which are made using gluten-containing grains such as rye, barley and wheat. The ruling changes the previous FDA requirement that distilled products labeled "gluten-free" must contain no gluten ingredients from start to finish.

The change was hailed by Chris Swonger, president and CEO of the the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (Discus), who said: “We commend FDA for this consumer-friendly ruling that will allow ‘gluten-free’ labelling claims to be included on distilled foods made from gluten-containing grains, and urge TTB to act swiftly to align policies allowing the same for distilled spirits products."

Text of the new FDA ruling reads, in part:

"[D]istillation is a process capable of separating gluten and other proteins from the remaining compounds...distillation must remove all protein (and thus gluten), regardless if the product has been distilled from gluten-containing grains.

[Distillation] removes gluten because gluten does not vaporize. Therefore, there should not be any gluten remaining in the final distilled product. For this reason, a distilled product labeling may bear a “gluten-free” claim and should be safe for people with celiac disease to consume."

The change means that manufacturers of distilled foods and beverages can now label their products as gluten-free without explanations about their gluten removal process.

Gluten-free marketing has long been an issue of contention among regulatory bodies, people with celiac disease, and experts, with most scientists agreeing that the distillation process removes gluten from the final product. Health professionals and celiac support groups, like Celiac.com, and Coeliac UK, have long advised that distilled spirits are gluten-free and safe for celiacs on a gluten-free diet.

Swonger said that “Allowing distillers to include a "gluten-free" statement on products made from gluten-containing grains will provide additional clarity for consumers to make informed choices about which products meet their dietary needs.”

The rule will take effect on September 14, 2020.

• Read the full text at FDA.gov 
• Read more at thespiritbusiness.com

Resources:

• Here are some of the most common questions about gluten-free alcoholic beverages.
• Here's a helpful list of Gluten-Free Alcoholic Beverages

Celiac.com 08/14/2020 - Monoglycerides and diglycerides do not contain wheat, rye, barley. They are gluten free and safe for people with celiac disease. Monglycerides and diglycerides appear on a number of gluten-free lists, including Celiac.com's Safe Gluten-Free Foods List.

Some mono- and diglycerides are made with wheat. FDA labeling laws require any mono- or diglycerides made with wheat to disclose that fact on the label, so check the allergen listings, to be sure.

Foods Containing Mono- and Diglycerides

Mono- and diglycerides are processed fats that help improve the consistency and quality of processed and packaged foods.  Mono and Diglycerides are often used as emulsifiers in baked goods, soft drinks, candy, gum, whipped cream, ice cream, margarine and shortening. 

Mono and Diglycerides May Contain Trans Fats

Some mono- and diglycerides are made in labs, while others come from animal or vegetable sources. All are exposed to heat for processing into packaged and prepared foods. Because of this, and because they are made from partly fatty acids, mono- and diglycerides may contain trans fats, which have been linked to an increased risk of numerous diseases, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Celiac.com 08/07/2020 - Everyone knows that some people react to the food ingredient monosodium glutamate (MSG). Did you know that the name of monosodium glutamate (MSG), is a trade name for sodium hydrogen glutamate? Did you know that MSG has dozens of names, and can sneak into processed food in myriad ways? 

MSG is gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease. MSG is included on Celiac.com's list of Safe Gluten-Free Ingredients, and plenty of people have no problems when eating MSG. However, MSG can cause adverse reactions in some people. Symptoms of adverse MSG reaction can include numbness or pressure in the face, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, wheezing or burning sensations in various parts of the body. For this reason, many people prefer to avoid MSG. 

For anyone sensitive or allergic to MSG, or anyone just trying to avoid it, here's a handy list of names for MSG that you might see on food labels. Remember, it's the chemical, not the name, that's important.

Glutamic Acid

Since MSG is the sodium salt of the amino acid glutamic acid, whenever glutamic acid is listed on a food label, the food always contains MSG. On its own, unprocessed glutamic acid found in protein is generally harmless. Only glutamic acid that has been processed, or which results from fermented protein, can cause adverse reactions.

Autolyzed Yeast Extract / Yeast Extract

Foods that contain yeast extract always contain MSG, including those labeled autolyzed yeast, yeast food or yeast nutrient. If you see the word 'yeast' or 'yeast extract' in processed foods you are getting monosodium glutamate (MSG) by another name. This also may contain trace amounts of gluten that, when used in small amounts like is usually done as a seasoning, may not make a food unsafe for celiacs, however, in high concentrations like those found in Marmite spread it could be unsafe for celiacs.

Hydrolyzed Protein

Any form of hydrolyzed vegetable protein, animal protein or plant protein, contains MSG.This includes any ingredient listed as hydrolyzed, protein-fortified, ultra-pasteurized, fermented or enzyme-modified, which either contain MSG, or produce free glutamic acid in manufacturing. 

These other names include soy protein isolate, soy protein concentrate, whey protein, whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, autolyzed plant protein, hydrolyzed oat flour and textured protein. 

Caseinate

MSG can sometimes appear on labels under the names sodium caseinate or calcium caseinate, and even under more wholesome names, such as bouillon, broth stock or malt extract (not gluten-free).

Natural Flavors

Besides yeast extract, MSG is often labeled as "natural flavors." Variations include natural flavor, natural flavorings, natural chicken flavor, natural beef flavor, chicken flavoring, seasoning, spices, enzymes and simply "flavoring." 

There are at least three dozen different ingredients that contain Manufactured Free Glutamate (MFG), the chemical in monosodium glutamate. Note that Europe uses E numbers, instead of food additive names. Those names and numbers include: 

• Autolyzed Yeast
• Carrageenan (E 407)
• Calcium Caseinate
• Calcium Glutamate (E 623)
• Glutamate (E 620)
• Glutamic Acid (E 620)
• Magnesium Glutamate (E 625)
• Monoammonium Glutamate (E 624)
• Monopotassium Glutamate (E 622)
• Monosodium Glutamate (E 621)
• Natrium Glutamate
• Sodium Caseinate (msg)
• Sodium Hydrogen Glutamate (msg)
• Torula Yeast
• Vetsin
• Yeast Extract
• Yeast Food
• Yeast Nutrient

Autolyzed Yeast, Brewer's Yeast, and Yeast Extract may contain trace amounts of gluten, so they are best avoided.

Even though most of these forms of MSG are gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease, some people have reactions to them, and want to avoid them.

Celiac.com 07/31/2020 - In the U.S., nearly all modified food starch is gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease. Modified food starch (except for that labeled as made with wheat) is on Celiac.com's list of Safe Gluten-Free Ingredients. Modified food starch is made by treating starch with enzymes, chemicals, or processing techniques to change the structure, and make it useful as an emulsifier, thickener, or an anti-caking agent in food manufacturing.

Modified Food Starch can go by many names, including:

• Modified Food Starch
• Modified Starch
• Food Starch
• Food Starch Modified
• Starch

In the U.S., most modified food starch is generally made from corn, potato, tapioca, or waxy maize. By federal law, the single word "starch" as an ingredient means cornstarch. In the U.S. all modified food starch not made with wheat, and labeled as such, is gluten-free.

Wheat is sometimes used to make modified food starch. By law, if wheat is used as the source, it must be declared on the label as "modified wheat starch" or "modified food starch (wheat)." Any food starch labeled as wheat starch is not gluten-free, and unsafe for people with celiac disease. This is why it's important to read the allergen label.

So, in the U.S., products labeled modified food starch, modified starch, food starch, food starch modified, and starch are all gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease. Anything made with wheat must be labeled and is not-gluten-free and unsafe for celiacs.

Celiac.com 07/24/2020 - In the U.S., hydrolyzed plant protein is gluten-free, safe for people with celiac disease, and appears on Celiac.com's list of Safe Gluten-Free Ingredients. All hydrolyzed plant protein is gluten-free, including soy protein isolate, soy protein concentrate, autolyzed plant protein, hydrolyzed oat flour and textured protein.

Hydrolyzed Protein is Gluten-Free. Other names and abbreviations for hydrolyzed vegetable protein include:

• HPP 
• HVP 
• Hydrolyzed Plant Protein 
• Hydrolyzed Protein 
• Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
• Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein

Hydrolyzed Protein is MSG

For some people, the problem is that any form of hydrolyzed vegetable protein, animal protein or plant protein, contains MSG. This includes any ingredient listed as hydrolyzed, protein-fortified, ultra-pasteurized, fermented or enzyme-modified, which either contain MSG, or produce free glutamic acid in manufacturing. 

Even though it's gluten-free and safe for celiac diets, MSG can cause adverse reactions in some people, with symptoms including, facial numbness or pressure, rapid heart beat, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, shortness of breath, or burning sensations in various parts of the body. For this reason, many people prefer to avoid MSG. 

New FDA Rules

Beginning on 10/13/2020, the FDA will require companies who use hydrolyzed ingredients in a product labeled "gluten-free" to prove that the starter ingredients used in the hydrolyzed product are gluten-free per the FDA's labeling regulations.

Celiac.com 07/03/2020 - In the USA Maltodextrin is generally made from potato, rice or corn, and the "malt" used in the process is not barley malt. So, in the US, maltodextrin is gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease, and Celiac.com includes maltodextrin on our Gluten-Free Safe Food & Ingredients List.

According to US regulations, maltodextrin, gluten, gluten-free, safe, celiac, disease, Sec. 184.1444, "Maltodextrin" is a "non-sweet nutritive saccharide polymer that consists of D-glucose units linked primarily by [alpha]-1-4 bonds and has a dextrose equivalent (DE) of less than 20. It is prepared as a white powder or concentrated solution by partial hydrolysis of cornstarch, potato starch or rice starch with safe and suitable acids and enzymes."

While USA regulations permit maltodextrin to be made with wheat, it is very rare. Also, maltodextrin made with wheat will be labeled as "wheat maltodextrin" or "maltodextrin (wheat)." Any product that contains wheat should also have 'wheat' listed on the allergen disclosure. 

For some people with celiac disease, especially those who are still in the process of healing the gut, gluten-free additives, like maltodextrin, can sometimes cause discomfort. 

If maltodextrin, or other additives in processed foods, bother your gut, it's better to stick with simple, whole foods until the gut is fully healed. At that time, it's okay to test your sensitivity again, and to add back ingredients that seem to agree with you.
 

Celiac.com 12/21/2024 (Updated. originally published 02/20/2015) - For those with celiac disease, even trace amounts of gluten can lead to severe health consequences, including digestive distress, nutrient malabsorption, and long-term damage to the small intestine. As such, identifying truly gluten-free alcoholic beverages is essential for enjoying drinks safely.

Navigating the world of alcoholic beverages can be daunting for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Hidden gluten sources in certain drinks can trigger adverse reactions, making it crucial to identify safe options. This guide provides a detailed overview of gluten-free alcoholic beverages and essential tips for ensuring a worry-free social experience.

Understanding Gluten in Alcohol

Many alcoholic beverages contain grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, which are harmful to individuals with celiac disease. These grains are commonly found in brewing and distillation processes. While distillation removes gluten proteins in most cases, cross-contamination and added flavorings can introduce gluten back into the final product.

Distilled Spirits

Distillation removes gluten proteins from the final product, and starting 9/14/2020 distilled alcohols can be labelled "gluten-free" no matter their source. That means all distilled spirits are technically gluten-free. However, some people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity have adverse reactions to spirits distilled from wheat, barley or rye. Many people with celiac disease have no problems at all with such spirits. The best advice we can give is to trust your gut. Avoid eating or drinking things that upset your stomach. However, unless they have added gluten ingredients, such spirits do not contain gluten, and are safe to drink. If you tolerate them well, you can be comforted by the fact that they are likely just as safe as spirits made from gluten-free ingredients and labeled 'Gluten-Free."

Gluten-Free Beer

In the United States, products labeled gluten-free must not contain or be made from wheat, rye or barley. That means many beers cannot be labeled gluten-free. Beers made with gluten-free ingredients and are gluten-free and can be labeled gluten-free.  Regular beers, even those labeled as “gluten-removed,” may not be safe for individuals with celiac disease. These products are made using barley and undergo an enzymatic process to reduce gluten content, but they may not be entirely gluten-free.

Gluten-Removed Beer

A number of beers are treated with enzymes to break down gluten. These beers are typically filtered to remove any stray proteins. Such beers can be labeled Gluten-Free in EU, but not in Canada or the US.

Is Wine Gluten-Free?

Wine is generally safe for celiacs because it is made from fermented grapes. Both red and white wines are naturally gluten-free. However, certain practices in winemaking can introduce gluten, such as using wheat-based fining agents.

Lists of Gluten-Free and Gluten-Safe Spirits, Beers, Ciders and Seltzers:

Naturally Gluten-free Beers

• Anheuser-Busch Redbridge
• Bard's Gold
• Bard's Tale Beer
• Brasserie Dupont Forêt Libre
• Brasseurs Sans Gluten Glutenberg Blanche
• Brunehaut Bio Ambrée
• Brunehaut Blonde Bio
• Brunehaut Blanche
• Burning Brothers Brewing
• Coors Peak
• Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales: Tweason'ale
• Departed Soles Brewing Company
• Drummond Gluten Free
• Epic Brewing Company: Glutenator
• Ghostfish Brewery
• Glutenberg American Pale Ale
• Glutenberg Blonde
• Glutenberg Belgian Double
• Glutenberg India Pale Ale
• Glutenberg Rousse
• Green's Discovery Amber Ale
• Green's Endeavour
• Green's Enterprise Dry-Hopped Lager
• Green's India Pale Ale
• Green's Quest Tripel Blonde Ale
• Ground Breaker Corsa Rose Gold Ale
• Ground Breaker IPA No. 5
• Ground Breaker Dark Ale
• Holidaily Brewing Company
• Ipswich Ale Brewery: Celia Saison
• Joseph James Brewing Fox Tail
• Lakefront New Grist Ginger Style Ale
• Lakefront New Grist Pilsner Style
• Minhas Lazy Mutt Gluten Free
• Mongozo Premium Pilsener
• New Planet Belgian Style Ale
• New Planet Blonde Ale
• New Planet Pale Ale
• New Planet Raspberry Ale
• New Planet Seclusion IPA
• New Planet Tread Lightly Session Ale
• Nickel Brook Gluten Free
• Nouvelle France La Messagère
• Nouvelle-France Messagère Aux Fruits
• Nouvelle-France Messagère Red Ale
• Schnitzer Bräu Hirse Lemon
• Schnitzer Bräu Hirse Premium
• Sprecher Brewing Company's Shakparo Ale
• Steadfast Beer gluten-free Blonde and Pale Ales
• Steadfast Beer Company's Oatmeal Cream Stout
• To Øl Reparationsbajer Gluten Free
• Whistler Forager

Gluten-Removed Beers

• Alley Kat Scona Gold Kölsch
• Brunehaut Bio Tripel
• Estrella Damm Daura
• Estrella Damm Daura Marzen
• Lammsbräu Glutenfrei Lager Beer
• Mikkeller American Dream Gluten Free
• Mikkeller Green Gold Gluten Free
• Mikkeller I Wish Gluten Free IPA
• Mikkeller Peter, Pale And Mary Gluten Free
• New Belgium Glutiny brand Golden and Pale Ales
• Short's Brewing Space Rock
• Stone Delicious IPA
• Sufferfest Brewing Company Pale Ale and Lager
• Widmer Omission Lager
• Widmer Omission IPA
• Widmer Omission Pale Ale
• Wold Top Against The Grain
• Wold Top Marmalade Porter
• Wold Top Scarborough Fair IPA

Gluten-Free Hard Cider

Most ciders are fermented from apples or other fruits. Most are safe, however, some add barley for enzymes and flavor. Read labels!

Brands of Gluten-Free Hard Cider

• Ace Ciders
• Angry Orchard
• Blue Mountain Cider Company
• Blackthorn Cider
• Bulmer's Hard Cider
• Crispin Cider (including Fox Barrel products)
• Gaymer Cider Company
• Harpoon Craft Cider
• J.K. Scrumpy's Organic Hard Cider
• Lazy Jack's Cider
• Magner's Cider
• Newton's Folly Hard Cider
• Original Sin Hard Cider
• Spire Mountain Draft Cider
• Strongbow Cider
• Stella Artois Apple and Pear Hard Cidre
• Woodchuck
• Woodpecker Cider

Gluten-Free Hard Seltzers

Hard seltzers have gained immense popularity as gluten-free alcoholic beverages. These drinks are typically made from fermented cane sugar and carbonated water with added flavors.

Popular Gluten-Free Hard Seltzer Brands

Arctic Summer

• Spiked pineapple pomelo seltzer
• Spiked ruby red grapefruit seltzer
• Spiked raspberry lime seltzer
• Spiked black cherry seltzer

Bodega Bay Hard Seltzer

• Apple
• Cherry
• Elderflower

Bon & Viv Spiked Seltzer

• Black Cherry Rosemary
• Grapefruit
• Pear Elderflower
• Cranberry
• Clementine Hibiscus
• Lemon Lime
• Prickly Pear

Bold Rock Seltzer

• Berry
• Blackberry Hard Lemonade Seltzer
• Blood Orange Hard Lemonade Seltzer
• Cucumber Melon
• Grapefruit
• Original Hard Lemonade Seltzer
• Passion Fruit
• Strawberry Hard Lemonade Seltzer 

Briggs Hard Seltzer

• Grapefruit
• Pineapple
• Cranberry

WARNING: Bud Light Seltzer sold in Canada contains malt and is NOT gluten free. 

Bud Light Seltzer

• Black Cherry Bud Light Seltzer
• Strawberry Bud Light Seltzer
• Lemon Lime Bud Light Seltzer
• Mango Bud Light Seltzer

Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade

• Original Lemonade
• Strawberry Lemonade
• Black Cherry Lemonade
• Peach Lemonade

Bud Light Platinum Seltzer

• Bud Light Platinum Original
• Bud Light Platinum Blood Orange
• Bud Light Platinum Citrus
• Bud Light Platinum Wild Berry

Bud Light Seltzer Iced Tea

• Bud Light Seltzer Iced Tea Raspberry

Bud Light Seltzer Out of Office

• Classic Lime Margarita
• Mango Mai Tai
• Strawberry Daquiri
• Watermelon Mojito

Cape Line

• Hard Strawberry Lemonade
• Margarita
• Blackberry Mojito

Coors Hard Seltzer

• Black Cherry
• Grapefruit
• Lemon Lime
• Mango

Corona Hard Seltzer

• Passion Fruit
• Pineapple
• Raspberry
• Strawberry

Crook & Marker

• Black Cherry
• Tangerine
• Strawberry Lemon
• Blackberry Lime
• Grapefruit
• Mango
• Peach

High Noon Sun Sips

• Grapefruit
• Pineapple
• Black Cherry
• Watermelon

Michelob ULTRA Organic Seltzers

• Citrus
• Cucumber Lime
• Mango Apricot
• Mixed Berry
• Peach Pear
• Spicy Pineapple

Mighty Swell

• Watermelon Mint
• Peach
• Cherry Lime
• Grapefruit

Nauti Seltzer

• Watermelon
• Black Cherry
• Blueberry Lemonade
• Mixed Berry

Truly - According to the Truly website, Truly Hard Seltzer "contains no gluten, liquor or spirits. The alcohol (ABV 5%) comes from fermenting all natural cane sugar.”

• Wild Berry
• Blueberry & Acai
• Raspberry Lime
• Black Cherry
• Lime
• Grapefruit
• Orange
• Lemon
• Pineapple
• Mango
• Passion Fruit
• Watermelon & Kiwi
• Rosé
• Truly on Tap (unflavored)

White Claw - According to the White Claw website, "White Claw‌ Hard Seltzer is made with naturally gluten-free ingredients."

• Black Cherry
• Mango
• Natural Lime
• Ruby Grapefruit
• Raspberry
• Watermelon
• Lemon
• Tangerine
• Pineapple
• Clementine

A number of hard seltzer are crafted to remove gluten. Many people with celiac disease report no problem with gluten-removed alcohol products, like gluten-removed beers, but we recommend choosing gluten-free seltzers, especially with so many to choose from.

Gluten-Removed Hard Seltzers

A number of ciders labeled as “gluten-removed,” may not be safe for individuals with celiac disease. These products may made using barley and undergo an enzymatic process to reduce gluten content, but they may not be entirely gluten-free.

Press Premium Hard Seltzer

• Blackberry Hibiscus
• Grapefruit Cardamom
• Pomegranate Ginger
• Lime Lemongrass
• Pear Chamomile

Pura Still Spiked Still Water

• Blackberry
• Mango
• Mandarin Orange

Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer

• Cranberry Lime
• Berry Lemonade
• Raspberry Rosé White Peach Rosé
• Pink Apple Rosé
• Strawberry Rosé
• Piña Colada

Benefits for Celiacs

Hard seltzers are convenient, low in calories, and naturally gluten-free, making them a favorite choice for social gatherings.

Is Gin Gluten-Free?

Most gins are made with gluten-containing cereal grains. The final distilled product does not contain gluten, but cannot be advertised or labeled as gluten-free. Many people with celiac disease choose to avoid these beverages, while many others drink them with no adverse effects.

Brands of Gluten-Free Gin

• Cold River Gin—distilled from potatoes 

Brands of Standard Gin

• Aviation American Gin
• Beefeater
• Bombay
• Bombay Sapphire
• Boodles British Gin
• Booth's Gin 
• Gordon's
• Leopolds Gin
• New Amsterdam Gin
• Seagram's
• Tanqueray

Is Rum Gluten-Free?

Distilled from sugar cane, most rums are gluten-free and safe for celiacs. Beware of pre-made drink mixes, such as those intended for piña coladas — many of these contain gluten ingredients as flavoring.

Brands of Gluten-Free Rum

• Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum
• Bacardi—only Gold, Superior, 151, and flavored
• Bayou Rum
• Bundaberg Rum
• Captain Morgan Rum
• Cruzan Rum
• Malibu Rum
• Montanya Distillers
• Mount Gay Rum
• Meyer's Rum

Gluten-Free Sake

Fermented with rice and Koji enzymes. The Koji enzymes are grown on Miso, which is usually made with barley. The two-product separation from barley, and the manufacturing process should make it safe for celiacs.

Is Tequila Gluten-Free?

Distilled from the agave cactus, all 100% agave tequilas are gluten-free and safe for celiacs.

Brands of Gluten-free Tequila

• 1519 Tequila
• 1800 Tequila
• Cabo Wabo
• Casamigos
• Cazadores
• Chimayo
• Don Julio
• El Jimador
• Herradura
• Hornitos
• Jose Cuervo
• Patrón
• Sauza

Is Vodka Gluten-Free?

Vodkas distilled from potatoes, gluten-free grains or other gluten-free ingredients contain no gluten ingredients and can be labeled as gluten-free.

Brands of Naturally Gluten-Free Vodka

• Broken Shed Vodka
• Corn Vodka—Deep Eddy, Nikolai, Rain, Tito's, UV
• Grape Vodka—Bombora, Cooranbong
• Potato Vodka—Boyd & Blair, Cirrus, Chase, Chopin, Cold River Vodka, Cracovia, Grand Teton, Karlsson's, Luksusowa, Monopolowa, Schramm Organic, Zodiac
• Rice Vodka—Kissui
• Sugar Cane—Downunder, DOT AU

Many vodkas are made with gluten-containing cereal grains. The final product does not contain gluten, but cannot be advertised or labeled as gluten-free. Many people with celiac disease choose to avoid these beverages, while many others drink them with no adverse effects.

Vodkas distilled from cereal grains

• Barley Vodka—Finlandia
• Grain Vodka—Absolwent, Blavod, Bowman's, Fleischmann's, Orloff, Polonaise, SKYY, Smirnoff, Stolichnaya, 
• Wheat Vodka—Absolut, Bong Spirit, Danzka, Grey Goose, Hangar One, Ketel One, P.i.n.k Vodka
• Rye Vodka—Belvedere, BiaÅ‚a Dama, Platinka, Sobieski, Starka, Wisent, Wyborowa, Xellent Swiss, Å»ubrówka
• Gluten-Free Whiskey

Nearly all whiskeys are made with gluten-containing cereal grains. The final product does not contain gluten, but cannot be advertised or labeled as gluten-free. Many people with celiac disease choose to avoid whiskey, while many others drink it with no adverse effects.

Gluten-free Whiskey Brands

• Queen Jennie Whiskey, by Old Sugar Distillery is made entirely from sorghum
• Gold Spur Corn Whiskey by Cowboy Country Distilling is made with corn, millet and oats

Whiskeys Distilled from Cereal Grains

• Bourbon—Benjamin Prichard's, Booker's, Buffalo Trace, Jim Beam, Early Times, Ezra Brooks, Jefferson's Bourbon, Knob Creek, Makers Mark, Old Crow, Old Forester, Old Grand-Dad
• Canadian Whiskey—Alberta Premium, Black Velvet, Canadian Club, Crown Royal,
• Tenesse Whiskey—Jack Daniels, George Dickel.
• Irish Whiskey—Bushmills, Jameson, Kilbeggan, Redbreast, Tullamore Dew
• Japanese Blended Whiskey—Hibiki, Kakubin, Nikka, 
• Japanese Single Malt Whiskey—Hakushu, Yamazaki, Yoichi
• Rye Whiskey—Alberta Premium, Bulleitt
• Scotch Whiskey Blends—Ballentine's, Bell's, Black Grouse, Chivas Regal, Cutty Sark, Dewar's, Famous Grouse, Johnnie Walker, Teacher's, Whitehorse
• Scotch Whiskey Single Malts—Bowmore, Glenfiddich, Glen Grant, The Glenlivet, Glenmorangie, Highland Park, Knockando, Lagavulin, Laphroaig, Macallan, Monkey Shoulder, Singleton, Talisker 
• Taiwanese Whiskey—Kavalan Classic

Are Wine Coolers Gluten-Free?

The majority of wine coolers are made from barley products, and so contain gluten. There are a few exceptions.

Gluten-Free Wine Coolers

• Bartle & Jaymes - all EXCEPT malt beverages
• Boones - all EXCEPT malt beverages

Other Gluten-Free Alcoholic Brews, Wines and Spirits

• Brandy
• Campari
• Champagne
• Cognac—made from grapes
• Cointreau
• Grappa
• Jaegermeister
• Midori
• Prosecco
• Khalua Coffee Liquer
• Kirschwasser (cherry liqueur)
• Old Deadly Cider
• Sambuca
• Vermouth

Gluten-Free Drink Mixes

• Club Extra Dry Martini (corn & grape)
• Club Vodka Martini (corn & grape)
• Coco Casa and Coco Lopez Brands: Cream of Coconut
• Jose Cuervo Brand: Margarita Mix and All Jose Cuervo Blenders
• Master of Mixes Brand: Tom Collins, Whiskey Sour, Strawberry Daiquiri, Sweet & Sour Mixer, and Margarita Mix
• Mr. & Mrs. T—Except Bloody Mary Mix
• TGI Friday's Brand: On The Rocks, Long Island Ice Tea, Margarita, Mudslide, Pina Colada, and Strawberry Daiquiri.
• TGI Friday's Club Cocktails including: Gin Martini, Manhattan, Screwdriver, Vodka Martini, and Whiskey Sour mix.

Other Gluten-free Beverages Mixes & Cooking Alcohol

• Club Tom Collins—made with corn
• Diamond Jims Bloody Mary Mystery
• Holland House - all EXCEPT Teriyaki Marinade and Smooth & Spicy Bloody Mary Mixes
• Mead—made from honey
• Mistico: Jose Cuervo Mistico—agave and cane
• Ouzo - made from grapes and anise
• Spice Islands - Cooking Wines - Burgundy, Sherry and White
• Also Godiva products contain gluten as do Smirnoff FMB's, Twisted V, and Smirnoff Ice

Additives Are Sometimes Used in Alcohols/Spirits

Certain spirits use chemical additives and preservatives such as glycerin to create a specific "mouth feel" and texture in an alcoholic beverage. Propylene glycol is used in foods and spirits, and although these ingredients are gluten-free, some people do have allergic reactions to them. Sulfites are often added to red wines, and many people are allergic to them. 

Tips for Staying Safe

Even with this guide, vigilance is key to ensuring a safe drinking experience. Follow these tips to avoid accidental gluten exposure:

• Research Brands: Check the manufacturer’s website or contact them directly to confirm gluten-free status.
• Read Labels: Look for certified gluten-free labels, especially on flavored spirits or pre-mixed drinks.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Ensure the bar or restaurant uses clean equipment to prepare your drink.
• Stick to Simplicity: Opt for straightforward drinks like pure spirits and mixers to minimize risk.
• Be Cautious with Cocktails: Fancy cocktails often contain syrups, bitters, or garnishes that may introduce gluten.

Conclusion

For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, enjoying alcohol doesn’t have to be a gamble. By sticking to safe options such as gluten-free spirits, wines, hard seltzers, and certified beers, you can partake in celebrations without compromising your health. Remember, informed choices and vigilance are your best allies when navigating the world of gluten-free alcohol.

Celiac.com 09/16/2019 - Here are some of the most common questions we get about gluten-free alcoholic beverages.

Gluten-Free Distilled Alcohols

Unless gluten is added after distillation, all distilled alcohols are free of gluten. However, under US labeling law, beverages made from ingredients containing wheat, rye, or barley, cannot be labeled or advertised as 'gluten-free.'So, when you do see a 'gluten-free' label on a distilled beverage, it means that no gluten ingredients have been used at any point in the production process. You'll find an extensive list of gluten-free alcohol, booze and liquor here.

Gluten Sensitivity Can Vary

Many people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity can tolerate whiskey, gin and other liquor distilled from grains, but many cannot. Use your own judgement and trust your gut when it comes to choosing alcohol. If something disagrees with you, it's likely best avoided. That said, we've tried to provide some depth and nuance to the answers here. Where possible, we reference truly gluten-free alternatives.

Is Whiskey Gluten-Free?

As a distilled beverage, whiskey contains no gluten. However, as a beverage made from gluten-containing cereal grains, whisky cannot be advertised or labeled as gluten-free. Many people with celiac disease choose to avoid whiskey, while many others drink it with no adverse effects.

Gluten-free Whiskey Brands

Queen Jennie Whiskey, by Old Sugar Distillery is made entirely from sorghum
Gold Spur Corn Whiskey by Cowboy Country Distilling is made with corn, millet and oats

Is Bourbon Gluten-Free?

Bourbon is a kind of whiskey made exclusively in the United States. Recognized by Congress in 1964 as a "distinctive product of the United States," Bourbon sold in the U.S. must be made in America from at least 51% corn and stored in a new container of charred oak. Other rules apply.

As a distilled beverage, bourbon whiskey contains no gluten, unless added after distillation. However, as a beverage made from gluten-containing cereal grains, bourbon cannot be advertised or labeled as gluten-free. Many people with celiac disease choose to avoid bourbon, while many others drink it with no adverse effects. 

Many brands of bourbon add a portion of the original mash back into the finished product to retard bacteria that could taint the whiskey, and to create a proper pH balance for yeast growth. In part because of the strict rules governing bourbon production, there are no bourbons currently labeled 'gluten-free."

Is Bailey's Irish cream gluten-free?

Baileys Irish Cream is a liqueur blended Irish whiskey and dairy cream. If you can tolerate whiskey and dairy, you can likely tolerate Bailey's.

Is Gin Gluten-Free?

As a distilled beverage, gin does not contain gluten. However, as a beverage made from cereal grain ingredients, gin cannot be labeled gluten-free. 

Brands of Gluten-Free Gin

• Cold River Gin—distilled from potatoes 

Is hard cider gluten-free?

Most ciders are fermented from apples or other fruits. Most are safe, however, some add barley for enzymes and flavor. Read labels to be sure!

Is Rum Gluten-Free?

Most rum is distilled from sugar cane and is gluten-free. However, be careful about additives. Read labels, especially for flavored or premixed products, just to be sure.

• Brands of Gluten-Free Rum
• Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum
• Bacardi—only Gold, Superior, 151, and flavored
• Bayou Rum
• Bundaberg Rum
• Captain Morgan Rum
• Cruzan Rum
• Malibu Rum
• Mount Gay Rum
• Meyer's Rum

Is Scotch Gluten-Free?

Scotch is a type of whiskey. As a distilled beverage, Scotch is gluten-free. However, as a beverage made from ingredients containing wheat, rye or barley, Scotch cannot be labeled gluten-free. 

Is Tequila Gluten-Free?

Distilled from the agave cactus, all 100% agave tequilas are gluten-free and safe for celiacs.

Is Wine Gluten-Free?

Yes. All wines, including brandy, champagne, cognac, port wine, sherry, and vermouth are safe for celiacs.

Are Wine Coolers Gluten-Free?

Are Wine Coolers Gluten-Free?
The majority of wine coolers are made from barley products, and so contain gluten. There are a few exceptions.

Gluten-Free Wine Coolers

• Bartle & Jaymes - all EXCEPT malt beverages
• Boones - all EXCEPT malt beverages

Is Vodka Gluten-Free?

Some vodka is labeled, some is not. Vodkas distilled from potatoes, gluten-free grains or other gluten-free ingredients, and which contain no gluten ingredients, and can be labeled 'gluten-free.' Vodka distilled from grain contains no gluten, but cannot be labeled 'gluten-free.' Many people with celiac disease drink either one without issues. Many prefer vodka made with no gluten ingredients and labeled 'gluten-free.'

Is Beer Gluten-Free?

In the United States, products labeled 'gluten-free' must not be made from ingredients containing wheat, rye or barley. That means many beers cannot be labeled gluten-free, including both traditional gluten-containing beers, and gluten-removed beers. 

Gluten-Free Beer
Beers made with gluten-free ingredients, and which test below 20ppm gluten, are gluten-free and can be labeled gluten-free.

Gluten-Removed Beer
A number of beers are made with traditional wheat or barley and treated with enzymes to break down gluten. These beers are typically filtered to remove any stray proteins. Such beers can be labeled Gluten-Free in EU, but not in Canada or the US.

See a long list of gluten-free and gluten-removed beers here.

Is Ale Gluten-Free?

Ale is a kind of beer. In the United States, products labeled 'gluten-free' must not be made from ingredients containing wheat, rye or barley. That means many ales cannot be labeled gluten-free. See our list of gluten-free and gluten-removed beers for more information. 

Is Jaegermeister gluten-free?

Jägermeister is an herb liqueur made from 56 herbs, roots, fruits, and other natural ingredients. The company says that Jägermeister can be considered free from gluten, starch and lactose. The actual recipe is secret, so no one can know for sure, so we'll have to take the company at its word.

Celiac.com 02/05/2019 - Grits are a southern favorite that are gaining popularity outside their traditional strongholds, as eateries like Waffle House and IHOP expose more eaters to this delicious breakfast food. Grits aren’t just for breakfast. Savory grits make a great meal or side for lunch or dinner. Grits are delicious, and because they are made from corn, they are naturally gluten-free. Grits are made from ground, dried hominy. Hominy is the inner portion of corn. 

When it comes to prepared grits, especially at restaurants, be careful of any extras, especially the gravy. Always make sure the gravy is gluten-free, then ask again. Gravy is often thickened with wheat four, though that’s changing as more places look to offer gluten-free options to their diners.

Most brands of grits should be naturally gluten-free, but if you’re looking for a brand specifically labeled as gluten-free, one major gluten-free brand is Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Corn Grits.So, even if you have celiac disease or gluten-intolerance, you can likely go ahead and enjoy delicious gluten-free corn grits for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Here are some gluten-free grits recipes:

• Gluten-Free Shimp and Grits
• Gluten-Free Cheesy Grits
• Gluten-Free Grits and Gravy

Also, if you’re not sure about a food or an ingredient, please check Celiac.com’s SAFE Gluten-Free Food List, and Celiac.com’s UNSAFE Gluten-Free Food List.