Is Flying Embers Hard Kombucha Gluten Free?

As the popularity of kombucha grows, so does the demand for variations of this probiotic drink. One such variation is hard kombucha, which contains alcohol. Hard kombucha is typically made by adding more sugar and yeast to the fermentation process, resulting in a higher alcohol content. One popular brand of hard kombucha is Flying Embers, which comes in a variety of flavors. However, for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, the question arises: is Flying Embers hard kombucha gluten-free?

What is kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage made from tea, sugar, and a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). During the fermentation process, the bacteria and yeast in the SCOBY consume the sugar and produce acetic acid, which gives kombucha its tart flavor. Kombucha often contains small amounts of alcohol, which is a byproduct of fermentation.

What is gluten?

Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is responsible for giving bread and other baked goods their chewy texture. Gluten is also commonly used as a filler in many processed foods.

Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the small intestine when gluten is consumed. This can lead to damage to the small intestine, malnutrition, and a host of other health problems. Gluten sensitivity, on the other hand, is a condition in which individuals experience adverse symptoms when consuming gluten, but do not have the same autoimmune response as those with celiac disease.

What does gluten-free mean?

Gluten-free means that a food or beverage contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This is the threshold that has been established by the FDA for a food or beverage to be labeled gluten-free.

Flying Embers Hard Kombucha

Flying Embers is a brand of hard kombucha that is brewed with organic ingredients and contains probiotics. Their hard kombucha comes in a variety of flavors, including ginger, lemon, and pineapple chili.

Is Flying Embers Hard Kombucha gluten-free?

Yes, Flying Embers Hard Kombucha is gluten-free. The company takes great care to ensure that all of their products are gluten-free and that their manufacturing process is free from cross-contamination.

What are the ingredients in Flying Embers Hard Kombucha?

The ingredients in Flying Embers Hard Kombucha vary depending on the flavor, but they are all made with organic ingredients. Some of the ingredients include kombucha, fruit juice, ginger, and chili peppers.

Is gluten-free labeling regulated?

Yes, gluten-free labeling is regulated by the FDA. In order for a food or beverage to be labeled gluten-free, it must contain less than 20 ppm of gluten.

Can you trust gluten-free labeling?

While gluten-free labeling is regulated, it is still important to exercise caution when consuming gluten-free products. Cross-contamination can occur during the manufacturing process, which can lead to trace amounts of gluten being present in the final product.

What are the risks of gluten consumption

For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming even trace amounts of gluten can lead to adverse health effects. In addition to damage to the small intestine, gluten consumption can lead to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Are there any alternatives to kombucha for those with gluten intolerance?

For those with gluten intolerance, there are several alternatives to kombucha. Water kefir, a fermented drink made from sugar water and kefir grains, is a gluten-free alternative that is similar in taste to kombucha. Additionally, there are several brands of gluten-free beer and hard cider on the market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for those with gluten intolerance, it is essential to know whether their beverages contain gluten or not. Flying Embers Hard Kombucha is gluten-free and is a safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, it is still important to exercise caution when consuming gluten-free products to avoid cross-contamination.