Navigating the shelves of a grocery store can be a bit daunting when you’re on the lookout for vegan and gluten-free products. Natural seltzer is a popular choice for those seeking a refreshing beverage, but is it safe for all dietary preferences? In this FAQ, we’ll delve into whether natural seltzer is suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.

What is Natural Seltzer?

Natural seltzer is a type of carbonated water that often contains added natural flavors. It’s a bubbly, refreshing drink with no added sugars or artificial components.

The key to understanding natural seltzer lies in its simplicity. It starts with regular water that is carbonated by adding carbon dioxide gas under pressure. The result is a fizzy, effervescent experience that dances on your taste buds, reminiscent of your favorite soda but without the calories or sweetness.

Natural flavors, which are derived from fruits, herbs, and other organic sources, are often added to enhance the drinking experience. This allows for a diverse range of flavors, from classic lemon and lime to exotic combinations like hibiscus and ginger. These natural essences are what set natural seltzer apart from regular sparkling water, offering a burst of flavor with every sip.

This is how we started when selecting ingredients for Shimmer Seltzer. We wanted our seltzers to be as natural as possible, boasting real fruit and cocktail bitters, all while maintaining a light carbonation for a pleasant effervescence.

Is Natural Seltzer Vegan?

Generally, yes. Natural seltzer is usually vegan as it typically contains only water, carbon dioxide, and natural flavors, which are plant-derived.

For those adhering to a vegan lifestyle, natural seltzer is an excellent choice due to its lack of animal-derived ingredients. The flavors added to seltzer are extracted from plants, ensuring that no animal products are involved. It is also common for natural seltzer brands to be transparent about their ingredients, providing peace of mind for the conscientious consumer.

However, as with all packaged goods, vigilance in label reading is advised. While the majority of natural seltzers are vegan, there can be rare exceptions, especially with novelty flavors or limited edition releases. These could contain unexpected ingredients, so checking the label ensures that your beverage aligns with your dietary choices.

Is Natural Seltzer Gluten-Free?

Yes, natural seltzer is usually gluten-free. It contains no grains, wheat, or barley, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

For anyone with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, natural seltzer is a safe and refreshing option. This is because its fundamental ingredients—carbonated water and natural flavors—do not include any gluten-containing components. The absence of grains in its production ensures it remains a safe choice for those needing to avoid gluten in their diet.

Though the production process is quite straightforward, there is always value in verifying the product information. Since some seltzers may experiment with cross-pollinating seltzer with other beverage types, like malt liquor, it’s wise to confirm that your choice remains purely a seltzer beverage.

Are There Exceptions?

While most natural seltzers are vegan and gluten-free, always read the labels. Some specialty flavors might have additives you’re unaware of, so it’s best to double-check.

Exceptions to the otherwise vegan and gluten-free rule are rare but possible in the vast beverage market. Some brands might explore novel flavor combinations or limited-time offerings that could involve unique ingredients not typically found in regular seltzer.

These unique offerings might include limited batch flavors that experiment with the addition of ingredients like honey or barley malt for a richer flavor profile. While these are anomalies, being an informed consumer is always advantageous. This due diligence not only guarantees adherence to your dietary habits but also ensures satisfaction with your beverage choice.

Refreshing and Suitable for All: Natural Seltzer

Natural seltzer is typically both vegan and gluten-free, making it a great choice for those adhering to these dietary practices. However, always check the label, especially with flavored varieties, to ensure no hidden ingredients are added. Enjoy your refreshing drink with confidence!

I am happy to say that Shimmerwood’s full line of CBD seltzers are both vegan and gluten-free. We take pride in being able to provide a refreshing and relaxing beverage option to those who are dietary restricted.