Coffee, in its pure form, is gluten-free. Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and coffee is made from coffee beans that do not contain gluten. Drinking black coffee, which is just brewed coffee without any added ingredients, will not cause gluten-related symptoms for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
However, many coffee shops and cafes offer various coffee drinks that may contain gluten-containing ingredients, such as flavored syrups, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. In addition, some instant coffee products may contain barley, which contains gluten, as a filler ingredient. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients in coffee drinks and to choose products that are labeled as gluten-free or to opt for a simple cup of black coffee to avoid any potential gluten exposure.
It's also important to consider that cross-contamination can also occur when coffee is prepared in a shared space with gluten-containing products. This can be a concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, as even a small amount of gluten can cause symptoms. To minimize the risk of cross-contamination, it's best to choose coffee shops and cafes that take gluten-free precautions, such as using separate utensils and equipment to prepare coffee drinks.
In conclusion, coffee itself is gluten-free, but coffee drinks may contain gluten-containing ingredients or be contaminated by gluten. People with gluten intolerance or celiac disease should be mindful of the ingredients in their coffee drinks and choose products that are labeled as gluten-free or prepare their own coffee to minimize the risk of gluten exposure.