The gluten-free movement is rising rapidly. Ever wondered if it’s just a culinary fad or a legitimate movement?
To start off, what exactly is gluten?
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Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley and rye. They are often present in our daily diet including bread, Milo, ketchup and beer. While most of us can consume gluten with no issue, there are however, some individuals who suffer complications – Coeliac Disease.
The heart of the matter, is the matter of the gut.
Our immune system protects the body from infections and illnesses by getting rid of germs and other invaders that do not belong.
In coeliac patients, the immune system mistakes gluten as a foreign invader and attacks the gut. Very often, the intestines of these individuals are inflamed and damaged.
Treatment to prevent Coeliac Disease?
Currently, there is no treatment. The only way to control it is a strict, 100% gluten-free diet.
If gone undiagnosed for many years, symptoms may progress to include:
- Malnutrition
- Infertility and miscarriage
- Anaemia
- Osteoporosis
- Intestinal lymphoma and small bowel cancer
- Neurological problems such as seizures
Fortunately, many eateries and food manufacturers are starting to offer special recipes for these individuals so that they can be included in social gatherings, too.
So… Gluten-Free beers?
Yes, even breweries are looking into new recipes and technology so that gluten-intolerant friends can join in the celebratory drinks.
One of such breweries is Mongozo – known for its special, innovative technique that removes gluten at 2 stages of the brewing process. This method is used on 2 specific beers: Mongozo’s Premium Pilsner and Buckwheat White.
Gluten-abstainers can be at ease as these 2 beers are gluten-free certified by the Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS).
Here are more gluten-free options in our portfolio. Feel free to reach out to us at info@thedrinkingpartners.com should you wish to create an exciting, gluten-friendly beer menu for your F&B outlet!
Fact and fad.
While the gluten-free diet may seem like a fad, it should not discount the fact that there are people facing very real and serious health conditions.
So before any of us ‘gluten-shame’ someone, remember that it may be a matter of life and death.