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Gluten-sensitive individuals should be cautious of additives in coffee blends that may contain gluten. It’s best to buy labeled gluten-free coffee beans or products, and check with the manufacturer or restaurant for allergen information. Some coffee fillers may also contain gluten, causing symptoms in those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Anyone sensitive to gluten, such as those diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, should be concerned about the gluten in coffee. Although coffee beans in their pure form are naturally gluten-free, many additives contained in instant coffee blends, flavored coffees or coffee shop blends may contain gluten. To be on the safe side, it’s best to buy coffee beans specifically labeled gluten-free and grind them at home, or buy only coffee products that are labeled gluten-free.
Celiac disease is a condition in which the consumption of foods containing gluten causes damage to the intestinal wall. There is no cure, but celiac disease can be treated by completely avoiding all foods that contain gluten, such as wheat, barley or rye. The gluten in coffee blends is usually found in ingredients derived from wheat or barley which may not be obvious at first glance. Ingredients such as caramel, spices or any type of starch may contain gluten.
The best way to determine if there is gluten in your coffee is to call the manufacturer of the coffee blend or product. Many companies provide their customer service representatives with nutritional information for customers with health problems or allergies. They may also be able to report if there is a danger of gluten cross-contamination in coffee processing. Some coffee brands may boast that they are gluten-free on their label.
Many chain stores maintain nutritional and allergen information on their websites or in the store. Workers may or may not be instructed to provide information about gluten in coffee products. The safest way to order coffee in restaurants or cafes is to check the company’s website in advance or, if in doubt, order regular coffee with only milk or sugar.
As the cost of coffee is rising, some coffee makers add other non-coffee-containing ingredients as fillers. Sometimes these fillers can include cereal grains, which could be a concern for gluten-intolerant individuals. These may not be labeled, especially if the coffee is produced in a country that doesn’t require labeling by law.
Many people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance experience symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea or stomach pains when they drink coffee, even when gluten is not present in the coffee. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to distinguish between coffee gluten symptoms and coffee sensitivity. Coffee is a common cause of gastrointestinal distress in some people. It is possible that someone with celiac disease who has recently adopted a gluten-free lifestyle may temporarily experience sensitivity to certain foods, such as coffee, while the intestinal tract is healing from the harmful effects of consuming gluten.
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