Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause negative health effects like digestive issues, fatigue and joint pain. Because of this, many people look for gluten-free alcohol options when drinking.
Smirnoff Seltzer is a popular brand of hard seltzer – a carbonated alcoholic beverage made with water, alcohol and natural flavors. Hard seltzers like Smirnoff have become very popular in recent years as a light, refreshing gluten-free alcoholic option. But with varying labeling and regulations regarding gluten-free claims, some consumers may still be unsure if Smirnoff Seltzer is 100% gluten-free.
What is gluten and why do people need to avoid it?
Gluten is a general name for the proteins found in wheat, rye and barley. It acts as a glue that helps foods maintain their shape and texture. These gluten-containing grains are commonly used to make bread, pasta, cereal and many other products.
For most people, consuming gluten is not an issue. However, for those with certain conditions like celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy, gluten can cause negative health effects:
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. This damage comes from an immune response triggered by the body which causes inflammation and problems absorbing nutrients. Short term symptoms of celiac disease may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating and fatigue. Long term it can lead to weight loss, malnutrition and even damage to other organs. The only treatment for celiac disease is strictly and permanently avoiding gluten.
Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is a condition involving gluten-related symptoms like pain, fatigue and gastrointestinal upset, without the characteristic intestinal damage seen in celiac disease. The exact mechanisms behind NCGS are still being researched, but it is estimated to impact anywhere from 0.5% to 13% of the population. For those with NCGS, a gluten-free diet can help alleviate symptoms.
Wheat Allergy
A wheat allergy is different than celiac disease or NCGS. With a wheat allergy, the body’s immune system views wheat proteins as a threat and creates antibodies to those proteins. This can cause symptoms like hives, wheezing and digestive issues. Those with a wheat allergy must avoid all products containing wheat.
Why People with Gluten Issues Look for Gluten-Free Alcoholic Beverages
For those with celiac disease, NCGS or a wheat allergy, following a strict 100% gluten-free diet is important to manage symptoms and prevent further complications. This means avoiding obvious sources of gluten like bread, pasta and baked goods. It also means being cautious with processed and prepared foods that can contain hidden sources of gluten, including alcoholic beverages.
Beer is an alcoholic drink that is commonly made from gluten-containing grains like barley, wheat and rye. This makes most regular beers unsafe for people who need to be gluten-free. Many liquors and flavored alcoholic beverages are also processed and distilled using gluten sources, or contain added gluten ingredients.
For these reasons, those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities need to be selective when choosing alcoholic beverages. Opting for certified gluten-free alcohol brands provides peace of mind. Hard seltzers, gluten-free beers and ciders, gluten-free labeled liquors, and wine are generally considered safer gluten-free alcohol choices.
What is Smirnoff Seltzer?
Smirnoff Seltzer is a popular brand of hard seltzer owned by the company Diageo. Hard seltzers are a type of carbonated alcoholic beverage made using water, alcohol and natural flavors.
The Smirnoff Seltzer line includes a variety of flavored seltzers like Smirnoff Seltzer Grapefruit, Smirnoff Seltzer Cranberry Lime and Smirnoff Seltzer Pineapple. The seltzers are 5% alcohol by volume, 90 calories and 1 gram of sugar per 12oz can.
Smirnoff Seltzer is part of a rapidly growing hard seltzer industry. Hard seltzers are marketed as light, refreshing options for health and weight conscious consumers compared to beer, wine or cocktails. Top selling hard seltzer brands also include White Claw, Truly and Bud Light Seltzer.
Smirnoff Seltzer Ingredients
According to the official Smirnoff Seltzer website, the ingredients in Smirnoff Seltzer products are:
– Carbonated water
– Alcohol (cane sugar distillate)
– Natural flavors
– Citric acid
– Sodium citrate
– Sucralose
– Acesulfame potassium
The alcohols used in Smirnoff Seltzer are made from fermented cane sugar. Cane sugar, sometimes called dextrose or glucose, is naturally gluten-free. No gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley or rye are used in the alcohol distillation process based on the ingredient list.
Are Smirnoff Seltzers Certified Gluten-Free?
Smirnoff Seltzer products are labeled as “gluten-free” directly on their packaging. However, the seltzers do not appear to be certified gluten-free through an independent third-party organization.
There are several organizations that provide gluten-free certification and testing:
Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG)
The Gluten Intolerance Group offers a certification program called Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). Food products certified by GFCO must contain less than 10ppm of gluten.
Celiac Support Association Recognition Seal
The Celiac Support Association provides a gluten-free certification known as the Celiac Support Association Recognition Seal. To qualify, products must test at 5ppm of gluten or less.
National Celiac Association Seal
The National Celiac Association has a gluten-free certification program that requires testing at 5ppm or less of gluten. Companies using the seal must renew testing annually.
At this time, Smirnoff Seltzer products do not appear to carry any of the major independent gluten-free certification seals. The company makes a “gluten-free” claim on its own without third-party verification.
What labeling regulations are there for gluten-free claims?
For a product in the United States to claim it is “gluten-free”, it must follow certain regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
– The food must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This is the lowest level that can be reliably detected.
– The food cannot contain any gluten-containing grains (like wheat, rye, barley and their derivatives).
– The food must adhere to any FDA food labeling laws.
These FDA regulations allow manufacturers to self-determine and self-report whether their products meet the requirements to be labeled gluten-free. Third party certification is voluntary, not mandatory.
Some consumers prefer certified gluten-free products for added assurance that strict standards were followed. Certification programs may require testing to levels below the FDA limit of 20ppm, more frequent testing, and thorough audits of facilities and processes.
What tests have been done on Smirnoff Seltzer specific products?
Limited independent lab testing has been conducted on Smirnoff Seltzer products to measure exact gluten levels:
Smirnoff Seltzer Orange Rosé
Consumer Reports tested Smirnoff Seltzer Orange Rosé in September 2021. Lab results found the product contained less than 5 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This is well below the FDA limit of 20ppm to make a gluten-free claim.
Smirnoff Seltzer Variety Pack
The Celiac and Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity Support Group tested flavors from a Smirnoff Seltzer variety pack in April 2021. The tested flavors – cranberry lime, orange mango and strawberry rosé – all contained less than 5ppm of gluten. Again meeting FDA regulations for a gluten-free label.
Smirnoff Seltzer Raspberry Rosé
In May 2020, results from the Gluten Free Watchdog group found Smirnoff Seltzer Raspberry Rosé contained less than 5ppm of gluten. This third round of testing further confirms very low gluten levels in Smirnoff Seltzer products.
What are the potential risks for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity?
Based on available information and independent lab results, Smirnoff Seltzer beverages appear to meet requirements to be labeled gluten-free and are unlikely to contain high amounts of gluten. However, there are a few factors those with celiac disease or NCGS should consider:
Testing Variability
The independent product tests reported finding less than 5ppm of gluten in Smirnoff Seltzers. However, testing can produce variable results. There is always potential for trace amounts of gluten in processes facilities, with ingredients, and during transportation where cross-contamination could occur. Those extremely sensitive should exercise individual caution.
Formula Changes
Product formulas can change over time. While recent tests show Smirnoff Seltzers at very low gluten levels, the company could potentially alter ingredients, processes or facilities. Consumers should check regularly for any formula updates.
Gluten Tolerance Differences
The amount of gluten different individuals can safely tolerate varies greatly. For example, those with celiac disease are more sensitive compared to those with NCGS. Some may do fine with the FDA limit of 20ppm while others need stricter standards of 5ppm or less. Individuals should determine their personal threshold.
Labeling Uncertainties
Despite meeting FDA labeling regulations, uncertainties exist with any product making its own “gluten-free” claim without independent certification. This means consumers need to research carefully and determine their comfort level with the brand’s standards and manufacturing processes.
Are other Smirnoff products gluten-free?
Besides Smirnoff Seltzer, the company Smirnoff produces many other alcoholic beverage products. Consumers need to check labels and product information closely, as gluten content can vary:
Smirnoff Vodka
Smirnoff Vodka is labeled gluten-free. Most vodka, including Smirnoff Vodka, is distilled from corn and potatoes – naturally gluten-free sources. Specific Smirnoff Vodka flavor varieties may also be gluten-free, but need verification.
Smirnoff Ice
Smirnoff Ice is a flavored malt beverage, not a gluten-free vodka like regular Smirnoff. Malted barley is used in the production of Smirnoff Ice, so these products contain gluten and are not safe for those with celiac disease or NCGS.
Smirnoff Canned Cocktails
Smirnoff offers ready-to-drink canned cocktails under brand names like Smirnoff Seltzer Cocktails and Smirnoff Ice Smash. Being prepared beverages, it is especially important to check ingredients lists. Some contain malt and gluten ingredients while others appear gluten-free.
The bottom line is those with gluten issues need to research the specific Smirnoff product being considered, as production process and ingredients vary significantly between their seltzers, vodkas, iced drinks and cocktails. Contacting Smirnoff directly with any questions is recommended.
Are other hard seltzer brands gluten-free?
Smirnoff Seltzer is certainly not the only seltzer option for gluten-free drinkers. Many other top brands also advertise their hard seltzers as gluten-free:
| Hard Seltzer Brand | Gluten-Free Claim |
|---|---|
| White Claw | Yes |
| Truly | Yes |
| Bud Light Seltzer | Yes |
| Wild Basin (Anheuser Busch) | Yes |
| Bon & Viv | Yes |
| Vizzy (Molson Coors) | Yes |
| Arctic Summer (Mike’s Harder) | Yes |
| Nauti Seltzer | Yes |
Similar to Smirnoff, these other hard seltzer brands also use a fermented cane sugar alcohol base and natural flavors. So their ingredient profiles and production processes are comparable. Those seeking variety can likely safely drink other major hard seltzer products, but individual research is still recommended. Lesser known brands should be checked closely.
Is hard seltzer safe to drink during pregnancy?
Hard seltzers like Smirnoff contain alcohol, so drinking during pregnancy is generally not recommended except in small amounts on occasion if introduced slowly. Here are a few considerations on hard seltzer and pregnancy:
– Hard seltzers typically contain around 5% alcohol by volume, similar to many beers. This is a relatively low alcohol content compared to many cocktails or wines.
– Following general guidelines, consumption should be limited to one standard size seltzer drink or less per day during the latter stages of pregnancy. Introducing alcohol slowly and with food can help minimize risks.
– Alcohol passes freely through the placenta to the developing baby. Potential effects of drinking include preterm birth, low birth weight, and abnormalities in brain and physical development. These risks are most significant with heavy, frequent drinking.
– Beyond alcohol content, hard seltzers provide little to no nutrition. The calories from alcohol and added sugars do not offer benefits. Staying well hydrated with water and nutrient-rich foods is important.
– As with any food or drink during pregnancy, moderation is key. Those who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should consult their doctor about appropriate hard seltzer intake based on health factors.
Conclusion
Based on its production process and testing results, Smirnoff Seltzer can be considered gluten-free to FDA regulations and safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. However, individuals managing gluten-related conditions should conduct their own research to determine their comfort level with Smirnoff’s standards and lack of third party certification. Overall, Smirnoff Seltzers appear to be a good gluten-free alcoholic beverage option, though consumption should be moderate for the healthiest lifestyle. Other major hard seltzer brands are also unlikely to contain gluten, but diligence in verifying ingredients is still advised, especially for new or lesser known seltzer products. When consumed responsibly and in moderation, Smirnoff Seltzer can be part of an enjoyable gluten-free diet.
