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Extra12/20/2006 12:34 PM ET

New beer uses ingredient from molasses

Anheuser-Busch launches a sorghum brew for people with wheat allergies.

By The Associated Press

Can't enjoy a brew because you're allergic to wheat?

Thanks to Anheuser-Busch (BUD, news, msgs), you can now grab a cold one without fear.

The brewer of Budweiser and Michelob is introducing Redbridge, which it calls the first nationally available sorghum beer. Sorghum, also used in molasses, is a safe grain for those with wheat allergies.

The St. Louis company, which dates to 1875, operates 12 breweries in the United States and sells about half of the beer bought in the country. Budweiser is the world's best-selling full-calorie beer, and its Bud Light is the best-selling beer of any kind. The company's other brands include Bud Ice, Busch Ice, Rolling Rock, Hurricane Malt Liquor, Bare Knuckle Stout and Bacardi Black Cherry.

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Starting today, you can find Redbridge beer in restaurants and stores that carry organic products. Anheuser-Busch is also marketing the beer as an alternative for those who choose wheat-free or gluten-free diets.

Brewmaster Kristin Zantop said that in addition to sorghum, the beer is made with imported hallertau and domestic cascade hops.

Anheuser-Busch said it worked closely with the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness in developing Redbridge. Celiac disease is a disorder that can cause damage to the intestines when anything is consumed containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.

An estimated 3 million Americans have been diagnosed with celiac disease, prompting an increased demand for gluten-free products.

At least three smaller brewers make gluten-free beer in the United States. Lakefront Brewery of Milwaukee, Wis., makes New Grist out of sorghum and rice. Ramapo Valley Brewing in Hillburn, N.Y., makes Passover Honey Beer by adding hops to honey and molasses. Bard's Tale Beer in Kansas City makes Dragon's Gold.

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