Gluten free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people opting to avoid gluten for medical reasons or simply as a lifestyle choice. For those who need or want to follow a gluten free diet, it’s important to know which foods and drinks contain gluten so you can make informed choices. One popular canned peach drink that often comes up in the gluten free debate is High Noon peach flavored vodka seltzer.
What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For most people, gluten does not cause any issues or negative health effects. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can trigger a range of unpleasant symptoms and health problems. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) refers to a condition where gluten ingestion causes issues like bloating, abdominal pain, fatigue and headaches, but does not damage the intestine.
Why follow a gluten free diet?
For those with celiac disease or NCGS, following a strict 100% gluten free diet is essential to manage symptoms and avoid further complications. Some people with autism, IBS, thyroid issues and other health conditions may also benefit from removing gluten from their diet. Beyond medical necessity, there has been a spike in interest around gluten free diets in recent years, with followers claiming benefits like increased energy, weight loss and improved mental clarity. While the science is still emerging on the benefits of gluten free eating for those without celiac disease or NCGS, it has become a popular dietary choice for many looking to improve their health or wellbeing.
Gluten in alcoholic beverages
When it comes to gluten content, alcoholic beverages like liquor, wine and pure spirits are generally considered gluten free, even if made from gluten containing grains. During the distillation process, the gluten proteins are removed and only trace amounts may remain. Beers, ales, lagers and malt beverages are made with gluten containing grains and are not distilled, so they do contain gluten. Flavored alcoholic seltzers and coolers often contain malt or other gluten ingredients. Admixed or pre-mixed cocktails may also contain gluten from flavorings or other added ingredients.
High Noon peach vodka seltzer
High Noon is a popular brand of premium flavored vodka soda drinks with fruit flavors like peach, pineapple, black cherry and more. High Noon seltzers are made with real vodka, sparkling water, fruit flavors and a splash of real juice. According to the manufacturer, High Noon peach vodka seltzers are gluten free.
Here are some key facts on High Noon’s gluten free claims:
- The main ingredients are purified water, alcohol (vodka), natural flavors, citric acid, and juice concentrates. None of these contain gluten.
- High Noon states the beverages are gluten free on their website and product packaging.
- The vodka used in High Noon seltzers is distilled from corn, not gluten grains.
- Independent gluten testing has verified non-detectable levels of gluten (below 20ppm).
- High Noon’s production facility practices gluten control protocols and sanitation methods.
- Reputable celiac forums and gluten awareness associations list High Noon seltzers as gluten free.
So based on its ingredients, distillation process, third party testing and gluten free certification, High Noon peach flavored vodka seltzers can be considered gluten free and safe for those following gluten free diets. However, it’s always best to verify on a case by case basis if unsure.
Cross contamination risks
While High Noon peach vodka seltzer contains no actual gluten ingredients, there is a small chance of cross contamination during production. Trace gluten could make its way into the products if equipment or facilities also process gluten products. However, High Noon enforces strict sanitation and quality control measures to avoid any cross contamination.
Those with celiac disease or NCGS who are highly sensitivity should use their own judgement on whether they feel comfortable consuming products made in shared facilities. Some opt to stick to drinks made in dedicated gluten free facilities just to be extra cautious.
Other gluten free alcohol options
In addition to High Noon’s range of gluten free flavored vodka sodas, there are many other alcohol options to choose from on a gluten free diet:
- Wine – most dry wines are made gluten free, double check for flavor additives
- Champagne and sparkling wines
- Distilled liquors like vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey
- Hard ciders and gluten removed beers
- Gluten free beer made from sorghum, rice etc.
- Wine based pre-mixed cocktails and coolers
- Liqueurs and pre-mixed shots labeled gluten free
Those adhering to a gluten free diet should always double check the label and product information as ingredients can vary between brands. When in doubt, choose certified gluten free options made in dedicated gluten free facilities.
Is High Noon safe in a gluten free diet?
Based on an analysis of its ingredients, distillation process and adherence to gluten safety protocols, High Noon peach flavored vodka seltzers are considered gluten free and safe to consume on a gluten free diet. Those with celiac disease or NCGS can feel comfortable enjoying these gluten free canned cocktails in moderation as part of their diet. However, it is always advisable to check for any changes in formulations or production processes when consuming any product long term.
Other potential dietary restrictions
In addition to being gluten free, High Noon peach vodka seltzers are considered:
- Grain free – made from corn, not gluten grains
- Nut free
- Dairy free
- Vegan – no animal derived ingredients
- Vegetarian friendly
- Kosher
However, they do contain alcohol, juice concentrates and natural flavors, so may not be suitable for every dietary need or restriction.
Nutrition facts for High Noon peach
Understanding the nutrition details can further help in determining if a product fits your dietary needs.
Here are the nutrition facts for 12 oz of High Noon peach vodka seltzer:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 196 |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Sugar | less than 1 g |
| Added sugars | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Alcohol | 16 g |
As you can see, High Noon peach vodka seltzers are low in carbs, sugars, fat and protein with the majority of calories coming from the alcohol content. Those on low carb or ketogenic diets may fit this into their eating plan, but should be mindful of total alcohol consumption.
Ingredients
To give you full information for dietary needs assessment, here are the ingredients in High Noon peach vodka soda:
- Filtered carbonated water
- Vodka distilled from corn
- Natural flavors
- Peach juice concentrate
- Citric acid
- Monk fruit extract
No gluten or grain ingredients are used. The vodka is distilled from corn, not wheat, barley or rye.
High Noon peach allergen information
In addition to being gluten free, High Noon peach flavored seltzers are considered free of most major food allergens:
- Tree nut free
- Peanut free
- Soy free
- Dairy free
- Egg free
- Shellfish free
- Fish free
However, they are not suitable for those with alcohol intolerance or with allergies to corn, monk fruit or other ingredients. Check with your doctor for any food restrictions.
High Noon peach gluten free certifications
High Noon peach flavored vodka sodas feature the following trust marks and certifications for gluten free assurance:
- Tested and verified gluten free by the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG)
- Certified gluten free by the Gluten Free Certification Organization (GFCO)
- Carries the Beyond Celiac Gluten Free symbol
These recognizable gluten free symbols take the guesswork out of label reading and provide added assurance for those adhering to a strict gluten free diet due to medical necessity.
Tips for enjoying High Noon peach gluten free
Here are some tips for selecting and enjoying High Noon peach vodka seltzers while adhering to a gluten free lifestyle:
- Check labels each time you purchase High Noon seltzers to ensure no recipe changes impact gluten content
- Inform bartenders of your gluten free needs when ordering High Noon drinks away from home
- Avoid muddled drinks, shots or cocktails where other ingredients or cross contamination may be concerns
- Enjoy High Noon peach seltzer directly from a sealed can or pour over ice into a clean glass
- Have gluten free snacks on hand to prevent overconsumption while drinking
- Hydrate well before and after to avoid gluten sensitivity symptoms like headaches
- Know your personal tolerance levels for alcohol if you have existing health conditions
The bottom line
High Noon peach flavored gluten free vodka seltzers can be enjoyed without gluten worries by those following gluten free diets, including people with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. However, it is always wise to verify ingredients, production processes and certification standards regularly as recipes and practices may evolve over time. When in doubt, opt for ciders, wines and spirits clearly labeled as “gluten free” to be extra safe. Drink in moderation and be sure to consult your healthcare provider on appropriate alcohol consumption given your individual health status and dietary restrictions.
