Gluten, gluten, everywhere, but is it in your beloved kombucha? Let’s uncork the truth about this trendy fermented beverage.
Yes, Kombucha is generally gluten-free. It’s naturally brewed with tea, sugar, and a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast), all of which are gluten-free ingredients. But some commercially available Kombucha products may contain additional ingredients, which may have gluten. So always check the product label if you have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Read on to dig a little deeper into kombucha’s gluten-free status so you can make sure it’s the right fit for you.
So, Is All Kombucha Gluten Free?
When kombucha is brewed without any gluten-containing ingredients, it can be considered gluten-free. The SCOBY, tea, and sugar, are all gluten-free.
When producers add flavorings or use alternative brewing methods, gluten may be introduced to this probiotic drink.
There are firms out there that produce beer-infused kombucha, utilizing grains and barley to extract sugars and impart flavor, much like the conventional process of brewing beer.
However, the presence of barley in these kombucha-beer mixtures renders them non-gluten-free. These products are often found in the alcohol aisle of grocery stores and can cause confusion due to their labeling as ‘kombucha’.
Additionally, certain flavors such as ‘bloody mary’ kombucha could potentially contain gluten, as they may use ingredients like soy sauce or kimchi brine (which usually includes soy sauce).
Therefore, if you come across an unusual or unique flavor, it’s advisable to scrutinize it more closely than you would a standard fruity or traditional flavor.
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein composite found in grains such as wheat, rye, spelt, and barley. It’s what gives breads their doughy texture and helps them keep their shape. When ingested by someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it can cause serious health issues and discomfort.
What Does Gluten-Free Mean?
Gluten-free means that the food or beverage does not contain any gluten and has been tested to ensure its gluten-free status. If you have an allergy or sensitivity to gluten, it’s best to look for this label on kombucha products and any other foods or beverages you buy.
Is There a Way To Tell If Kombucha Is Gluten-Free On The Label?
Products that have been certified as gluten-free will bear a distinctive mark on their packaging to indicate this status. The criteria for this certification, at the very least, aligns with all FDA regulations regarding gluten-free labeling, and in certain instances, may even surpass these standards.
Why Is Kombucha Beneficial For a Gluten-Free Lifestyle?
Kombucha could be a great swap for other drinks if you’re living a gluten-free lifestyle.
Here’s why:
- It aids in digestion, which could help those with gluten sensitivity to better manage their symptoms.
- It’s loaded with vitamins and minerals, which can help support a healthy lifestyle.
- Low in calories and sugar compared to most other drinks.
- Its probiotic properties help boost the immune system and support gut health.
- Kombucha helps in detoxifying the body and increases energy levels.
Many people with gluten sensitivities love this fermented beverage as well as eating fermented vegetables to help balance and support the gut microbiome.
Is Alcoholic Kombucha Gluten-free?
Yes, alcoholic kombucha is generally gluten-free. While the alcoholic versions of this drink may make for good substitutes for beer, they don’t include any of the wheat you would typically find in a bottle of beer.
However, it’s possible, especially with more creative blends, that there have been gluten-laced ingredients added. So always make sure to take a good hard look at the label to confirm. And when in doubt, give the manufacturer a call.
The Bottom Line: Is Kombucha Gluten Free?
Luckily, those who are restricted to grain-free beverages are free to enjoy the delicious flavor of Kombucha. And many companies specifically label their bottles as “gluten-free” just as they would “vegan“, making it clear as day that it’s safe for consumption.
Want to learn more about the wonderful world of Kombucha? Check out my guide to making kombucha, my recommendations when it comes to choosing the best kombucha starter kit, and my suggestions when it comes to giving kombucha to your dog.
Heck, I’ll even give you my two cents when it comes to drinking kombucha for weight loss.
All in all, this drink is great for homesteaders and casual consumers alike. So if you’re gluten sensitive or intolerant, enjoy a sparkling glass, worry-free.
