Is Cider Gluten Free?

Is cider gluten-free? The short answer is yes, most of the time! When appropriately made, cider is free from wheat, barley, or rye, using only 100% pressed fruit juice. For those who can’t have gluten, beer might be off the table, but cider offers a tasty alternative worth trying.

Why Cider Is a Great Gluten-Free Option

People looking for gluten-free options that taste good should turn to craft cider. A sip of quality cider brings a mix of complex flavors and an incredible sense of refreshment, which is why it’s such a favorite during the hot summer months.

Cider: Naturally Gluten-Free

Cider is one of the best drinks for anyone with gluten sensitivity. Most ciders are naturally gluten-free, and with the growing demand for gluten-free products, there’s now a more enormous selection than ever.

From classic ciders to dry perries or blends with other fruit juices, the gluten-free crowd has plenty to enjoy.

The Rise in Cider's Popularity

The gluten-free nature of cider has helped boost its popularity, especially in places like the U.S., where sales have surged over the past few years. Thanks to smaller, dedicated cideries putting extra care into their craft, today’s ciders are higher quality than ever.

Cider is making a comeback and reclaiming its well-deserved respect, thanks to the creativity and dedication of those behind the scenes.

Gluten-Free Diet Trends

Even though only around 3% of the population is gluten intolerant, 15% of households follow a gluten-free diet as a lifestyle choice. Furthermore, 31% of households include at least one person with an allergy or intolerance.

This trend has created ample opportunity for cider makers, especially since cider is vegan—and vegetarian-friendly (as long as it’s made correctly).

Why People Choose Gluten-Free

Plenty of folks, diagnosed celiac or not, report feeling better when they cut gluten from their diet. Many say they experience less bloating and more energy when avoiding gluten. This has encouraged more people to embrace gluten-free living and look for drinks that align with their diet.

Are All Ciders Gluten Free?

Not every cider is 100% gluten-free, so it’s good to double-check. Some ciders may have trace amounts of gluten because of the yeast used in fermentation. Although the gluten content is typically low, it’s not entirely gluten-free. To be safe, look for the gluten-free label on the bottle.

Coeliac symptoms vary widely from mild to severe and can include issues like diarrhea, stomach pain, and fatigue. These symptoms can last for hours or even days, so if you’re sensitive to gluten or choosing a gluten-free lifestyle, it’s worth paying attention to those labels.