Omission Beer now certified gluten free by the Celiac Sprue Association

While attending the Food Allergy Bloggers Conference in Las Vegas a few weeks ago, I was informed by the Omission Beer representative that their products had become certified gluten free by the Celiac Sprue Association (CSA).  This news is sure to intrigue beer drinkers who reluctantly surrendered their favorite beer when diagnosed with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).

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Click here for the press release from CSA announcing that they have given a Recognition seal to Omission Beer for their Pale Ale and Lager.  This does NOT apply to Omission’s IPA at this time.

Excerpt from the press release:

CSA conducts independent tests of products under consideration for its Recognition Seal, and has found that Omission meets the organization’s criteria. In evaluating Omission Beer, CSA also reviewed detailed results and analysis from recently conducted mass spectrometry testing, which showed that the trace amounts of gluten remaining in the beer did not contain any known toxic amino acid sequences. CSA also requires documentation of ingredient sourcing, allergen control and sanitation plans, training procedures for controlling cross-contamination, and an inspection of packaging materials.”

CSA has also published this Q & A to provide gluten free consumers and celiac patients with further information.

Because there has been so much controversy in the gluten free community surrounding Omission Beer, I asked them to provide facts showing the process used to remove gluten from their beverages.  They complied and provided me with the information about mass spectrometry that I asked for.  I’m not ashamed to say some of the scientific facts are way beyond my understanding. Unfortunately, I am neither a scientist or a physician nor have I played one on TV, I am just a girl who wants to be able to have cold beer safely once in a while.

What I can say is that having consumed several of these beers, I have yet to have a reaction. Yes, I am a celiac who has dreaded, unmistakable and immediate gastrointestinal symptoms upon consuming minute amounts of gluten.  That said, I’ve heard that others with celiac disease and/or NCGS  have had reactions after consumption of this product.

As always, exercise your best judgement when deciding what products are safe for you.  Trust your body.  If ANY product labeled gluten free doesn’t agree with you, don’t consume it.

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I’d love to hear your thoughts.  Will you be partaking in a beer party with Omission Beer soon or will you be avoiding this product as you have in the past?

 

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8 Responses to “Omission Beer now certified gluten free by the Celiac Sprue Association”

  1. Aw, I’m crying into my glass of rice milk that I did not taste this beer at FABblogcon. I’m not allergic to gluten but I have a sensitivity that makes my ankles swell and being plump in nature,I don’t need any further swelling anywhere.

    I will hopefully drink this beer and see about my ankles!

    • GFKimAZ says:

      Don’t cry into your rice milk 🙂 If you should decide to try it, please let me know 1. If you like it and 2. If you have any adverse reaction. Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Any special dishes for your family? I haven’t made my shopping list yet….so unlike me to do that.

  2. Libby says:

    I was REALLY impressed by the Omission lager when I tried it at the conference. After spending a couple years in Germany, I’ll admit I became a bit of a beer snob, and clear wheat beer was my absolute favorite. I didn’t know there was any controversy about how safe the beer was, though, so I’m glad you mentioned that before I started suggesting it to everyone I know who avoids gluten!

    • GFKimAZ says:

      Libby,
      Due to the science behind the testing and the fact that the beer begins with brewing process containing gluten, there is much going on within the community and very differing opinions. Hoping you have a fantastic Thanksgiving!

  3. I’m glad you didn’t react to it. But knowing that it started with gluten gives me great pause. I wouldn’t even want to try it, because I am very sensitive. I’d rather stick to beer that has less dubious origins. I would be curious to take a look at their science, though.

    • GFKimAZ says:

      Heather,
      Many in the celiac and NCGS agree with you as seen on Twitter 🙂 I’ll take wine and a martini over beer almost any day. (Check your inbox)
      Hope you have a fantastic Thanksgiving. Sharing the stuffed-pepper.com meal plan….

  4. Amy says:

    I tried the beer at FABlogCon and no reaction! I was really worried at first. The funny thing is my husband had bought it for me and I made him return it. Having the Celiac Sprue Assoc slap it’s approval on it makes me more confident. I’ll recommend to my college boy–when he turns 21 of course!

    • GFKimAZ says:

      Glad you didn’t have a reaction Amy. I’m looking forward to learning more about the science behind this and whether it will be approved for food products as well. I must say, it’s completely puzzling to me. Then again, I love learning new things.
      Hope you have a terrific Thanksgiving!

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