We have released a new position paper addressing the limitations of current gluten analysis methods in gluten-free beer and their implications for coeliac consumers.
Despite challenges in detecting gluten, the AOECS asserts that gluten-free beers produced under existing guidelines remain safe for coeliacs. Until new detection methods are validated, the association advises coeliac consumers to select beers displaying the AOECS Gluten-Free Trademark for verified safety.
The Complication with Gluten-Free Beer
Beer is typically made from gluten-containing barley, yet gluten-free beer can be produced either by using naturally gluten-free cereals (such as sorghum or rice) or by removing gluten through extended fermentation and enzyme treatment.
However, in the latter case, the breakdown of gluten into smaller peptides during fermentation makes detection more difficult, complicating the analysis.
Current Analytical Challenges
The R5 competitive ELISA method is the current standard for detecting gluten in hydrolysed products, including beer. AOECS acknowledges that this method has limitations in accurately detecting the small gluten fragments formed during fermentation. While new approaches such as LC-MS and multiplex ELISA offer promise, they are not yet validated or widely accessible due to their complexity and cost.
Safety for Coeliacs
According to EU law and Codex standards, beers labelled gluten-free must contain less than 20 mg/kg of gluten, even if produced from gluten-containing grains. We emphasise that current testing methods are in line with these regulations but calls for more research to improve the sensitivity and reliability of gluten analysis in hydrolysed products.
Encouraging Further Research
AOECS continues to collaborate with the Prolamin Working Group and other experts, urging further studies into more advanced gluten detection methods. We remains committed to helping coeliac patients make informed choices by advocating for more robust testing standards and ensuring that products bearing the AOECS Gluten-Free Trademark meet strict verification requirements.
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