Is Root Beer Gluten Free?

Gluten verdict for Root Beer: Check the Label

Check the Label Root Beer

Most modern root beer is gluten free, but check, as some is barley-brewed.

AU FSANZ & Coeliac Australia US FDA

Rated against the stricter of the two standards. Compare AU and US rules

Most commercial root beer is a soft drink with no gluten ingredients, but some traditional or craft root beers are brewed with barley, so check the brand.

Coeliac Disease

Most canned root beer is gluten free, but check craft and traditional brews for barley.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance.

Why Does Root Beer Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Most is a soft drink, but barley-brewed versions contain gluten.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ requires barley to be declared. Check the Australian product.

United States (FDA)

The FDA permits a gluten free label below 20 ppm. Most US root beer is gluten free; check craft brews.

What to Watch For

Barley or malt in traditional or craft root beers.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Plain soft drinks labelled gluten free, sarsaparilla without malt.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Root Beer gluten free?

Most commercial root beer is a soft drink with no gluten ingredients, but some traditional or craft root beers are brewed with barley, so check the brand.

Can coeliacs eat root beer?

Most canned root beer is gluten free, but check craft and traditional brews for barley.

Related Foods in Drinks

GF, gluten free Water GF, gluten free Coffee (plain)GF, gluten free Tea (plain)Check the label Herbal tea GF, gluten free Soft drinks or soda GF, gluten free Fruit juice GF, gluten free Coconut water Check the label Energy drinks

More from RefDat

Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

Coeliac Australia, FSANZ

Last reviewed: July 2026