Overview

• A study presented at Digestive Disease Week 2025 found that gluten transfer during kissing is minimal, even when one partner has just consumed gluten.
• The research involved 10 couples, each with one partner with celiac disease, and tested gluten levels in saliva after 10-second kisses under different conditions.
• Drinking water before kissing reduced gluten levels in saliva to below the 20 ppm threshold considered safe for gluten-free products.
• Only two of 20 kisses exceeded the safety threshold, and no participants reported symptoms of gluten exposure, even in these cases.
• Experts suggest the findings provide reassurance to people with celiac disease, though those with extreme sensitivity may still choose to take precautions.