How Much Gluten Is In Corona?
In the gluten-free community, there have been numerous discussions about the gluten content of Corona Extra, a popular pale lager produced by Grupo Modelo. This article aims to present a detailed examination of various tests conducted to determine the gluten levels in this beer.
- Rumors and Competitive ELISA Results: Rumors regarding Corona Extra’s low gluten content have gained traction, largely due to its competitive ELISA results using the R5 Antibody test. According to a 2009 Swedish study, this beer demonstrated a gluten content of less than 10 parts per million (ppm). This makes it one of the few barley-based beers with verified low gluten levels.
- Online Testing and Bloggers’ Insights: Numerous bloggers within the gluten-free community have independently tested Corona using different methods. Their results have often been negative, supporting the notion of a low gluten content.
20 PPM Gluten: The Threshold Importance
CORONA IS NOT GLUTEN FREE. It is brewed with barley malt, which is a source of gluten. However, if you have a mild gluten intolerance and/or are interested in trying “low-gluten” beers, you might wonder about the gluten content in Corona.
As one of the criteria for using the claim “gluten-free,” the FDA set a limit of less than 20 ppm (parts per million) for the unavoidable presence of gluten in foods that carry this label. That is the lowest level that can be consistently detected in foods using valid scientific analytical tools. Also, most people with celiac disease can tolerate foods with very small amounts of gluten. This level is consistent with those set internationally. Some living with a gluten-free diet feel safe to consume beers that test for under 20 PPM gluten.
Corona Gluten PPM
Beer: Corona Extra
Producer: Grupo Modelo
Style: Pale Lager
Alcohol by volume: 4.5%
Ingredients: barley malt, rice, corn, hops, yeast, antioxidants (ascorbic acid), and propylene glycol as a stabilize
Test Results
Test 1
Source: https://www.lowgluten.org/corona-test/
Test Kit: Imutest Gluten-in-Food Kit
Test result: The test indicated no detectable gluten in Corona Extra. The detection limit in this kit is very low (1-2 ppm) and the results where negative.
Test 2
Source: http://gluteninbeer.blogspot.com/2014/01/corona-extra.html
Test kit: E-Z Gluten
Test result: Negative at 10 parts per million (ppm), meaning it is less than 10 ppm gluten.
Test 3
Source: https://cookingaldante.com/2022/05/03/corona-extra/
Test kit: E-Z Gluten
Test results: Initially, the test showed a negative result, indicating less than 10 ppm gluten (January 2022). However, a subsequent test in October 2022 yielded a convincingly positive result, suggesting a gluten content greater than 10 ppm.
Corona Light
Source: https://cookingaldante.com/2022/06/05/corona-light-premier-gluten-test-results/
Test kit: E-Z Gluten
Test results:
Initially, the test showed a negative result, indicating less than 10 ppm gluten (June 2022).
However, a subsequent test in October 2022 yielded a convincingly positive result, suggesting a gluten content between 30-60ppm
Corona Premier
Source: https://cookingaldante.com/2022/06/05/corona-light-premier-gluten-test-results/
Test kit: E-Z Gluten
Test results:
Initially, the test showed a positive result, indicating more than 10 ppm gluten (June 2022).
However, a subsequent test in October 2022 yielded a convincingly positive result, suggesting a gluten content between 30-60ppm
Unveiling the Gluten Content of Corona Extra: A Detailed Perspective
The gluten content of Corona Extra has captivated the gluten-free community, leading to intriguing discussions and debates. While certain studies and independent tests suggest that the gluten levels in this beer are below 10 ppm, there have also been occasional instances of higher gluten content reported. Overall, it is highly likely that the majority of Corona beers contain gluten levels below 10 ppm, which falls within the low gluten range.
For a more comprehensive understanding of the enzymes responsible for maintaining gluten levels below 20 ppm in Corona Extra, valuable insights can be found in the research available at https://cookingaldante.com/2022/05/03/its-all-in-the-enzymes-why-corona-extra-has-gluten-levels-below-20ppm/
Personal Experience and Gluten Sensitivity
As an individual who has diligently followed a gluten-free lifestyle for over a decade, I can personally attest to occasionally enjoying Coronas without experiencing immediate adverse effects. It’s essential to acknowledge that while small quantities of gluten may be present, consuming Corona beers in moderation has not caused any immediate issues for me.
However, it is crucial to recognize that long-term health problems can arise from ingesting gluten for individuals whose bodies cannot properly digest it. Gluten tolerance can significantly vary from person to person, making it imperative for those with gluten sensitivities to approach Corona Extra with caution. As a precautionary measure, seeking personalized advice from a healthcare professional is always recommended.
Conclusion
While indications point towards low gluten levels, there may be occasional variations. The research on the enzymes contributing to gluten levels below 20 ppm offers deeper insights into this matter. As someone who has personally enjoyed Corona beers without immediate adverse effects, I recognize the importance of being mindful of individual gluten sensitivities and seeking professional advice for a healthier and informed approach.
If you are wontering about the gluten content of other beers, make sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Gluten in Beer.
Disclaimer:
Gluten testing can be an intricate process, with varying test kits and methodologies leading to different outcomes. Factors such as brewing processes and batch variations might also play a role in the final results. We value the well-being of our consumers and recommend those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to consult with their healthcare provider and conduct additional research before making their decision.
Please note that the gluten threshold regulations mentioned in this article are based on the information available up until September 2021. Be sure to check for any updates or changes in gluten threshold regulations beyond this date.
