Cider has long been a favourite drink for those looking for something refreshing, fruity, and naturally rooted in the orchard. But if you’re gluten intolerant or living with coeliac disease, one big question often arises before raising a glass: is cider gluten free?
The short answer is: yes, most traditional ciders are naturally gluten free. But as with many food and drink products, there are some important details to understand – from how cider is made, to the ingredients and flavourings that may be added along the way. This guide takes you through everything you need to know. If you want to skip to the bit about when cider is not gluten-free, click here.
What Is Cider Made From?
At its heart, cider is one of the simplest drinks in the world. It begins with apples (or sometimes pears, when we call it perry). The fruit is pressed, the juice is collected, and then fermentation takes place — yeast converts the natural sugars into alcohol. The result? A drink that captures the essence of the orchard in every sip.
Key ingredients in traditional cider:
- Apples (or pears)
- Yeast (for fermentation)
- Sometimes water (to adjust strength)
No grains, no barley, no wheat. Which means, in its most natural form, cider is gluten-free.
Why Most Ciders Are Naturally Gluten Free
Unlike beer, which relies on barley and wheat as a base, cider skips grains entirely. That makes it a popular alternative for people who love the sociability of a pint, but can’t tolerate gluten.
In fact, many well-known commercial ciders – think Strongbow, Bulmers, Rekorderlig, or Thatchers – are marketed as gluten free. Independent craft cideries, particularly in the UK and Europe, often rely on nothing but freshly pressed fruit, making them some of the safest and most flavourful options for gluten-sensitive drinkers.
When Cider May Not Be Gluten Free
While most ciders are safe, there are some caveats worth being aware of:
1. Flavourings & Additives
Some modern ciders (especially fruit-flavoured or “alcopop-style” versions) may include flavourings, colourings, or stabilisers. While these are usually gluten free, it’s worth checking the label, particularly if you have a strong intolerance.
2. Cross-Contamination
In rare cases, cross-contamination can occur if cider is made or packaged in a facility that also handles beer or other gluten-containing drinks. This is uncommon, but not impossible.
3. Barrel-Aged or Specialty Ciders
Some ciders are aged in barrels that once held beer, whisky, or other drinks. While spirits are usually gluten free, beer barrels may pose a very small risk of gluten trace contamination.
Certified Gluten Free Ciders
If you’re highly sensitive or coeliac, look out for bottles and cans that carry a certified gluten free label. Many big cider brands test their products and certify them through coeliac associations. Smaller craft cideries may not always have certification, but if they’re using 100% apple juice and wild yeast, the risk is extremely low.
Cider vs. Beer: A Safer Alternative?
For anyone moving away from beer because of gluten intolerance, cider is a natural alternative. You still get the sociability of a pint, the choice between still or sparkling, and a wide range of flavour profiles -from bone dry to sweet, funky to refined.
- Beer → Made from barley/wheat (contains gluten)
- Cider → Made from apples/pears (naturally gluten free)
In fact, many pubs now carry at least one gluten free beer alternative, and more often than not, that’s cider.
What About “Pear Cider” or Perry?
Perry (often marketed as pear cider) is made in exactly the same way as apple cider, just using perry pears instead. These also contain no gluten, making perry a safe option for gluten-free drinkers.
Are All Cider Cocktails Gluten Free?
Cider makes a great base for cocktails, but if you’re mixing, it’s important to check what else is in the glass:
- Safe mixers: Spirits like gin, vodka, and rum are usually gluten free. Fresh juices, herbs, and syrups are too.
- Potential risks: Pre-made cocktail syrups, flavoured liqueurs, and beer/cider hybrids may contain gluten. Always double-check the label.
How to Choose a Gluten Free Cider
When shopping or ordering at the pub, here are a few quick tips:
- Look for simple, traditional ciders – 100% apple juice, nothing else.
- Check for certification – especially if you’re coeliac.
- Ask about additives – particularly with fruity or flavoured ciders.
- Go local – smaller, craft cideries often produce pure, unadulterated cider.
Health Benefits of Gluten Free Cider
While cider is still an alcoholic drink and should be enjoyed in moderation, it does have a few positives when compared to beer:
- Naturally gluten free – safe for coeliacs and gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Lower in calories than some beers – depending on sweetness.
- Rich in antioxidants – apples contain polyphenols that may support heart health.
The bottom line?
Quite simply, always read the label so that when you’re raising a glass, you can do it with confidence. Or, just buy our cider. All natural and 100% gluten-free!