Share
Quick Tips
1If in doubt, avoid grains without full ingredient disclosure or third-party certification.
2Call the manufacturer directly if the gluten status of grains isn’t clearly labelled.
3Check if the grains is produced in a facility that handles gluten—cross-contact is risky.
# In This Article
5 sectionsQuick navigation to each section of this article:
1 What Does Gluten-Free Grain Mean?
A gluten-free grain must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten and cannot include wheat, barley, rye, or derivatives. Certified gluten-free products are produced in facilities that prevent cross-contamination and are clearly labelled to help shoppers make safe choices.
Jump2 Which grains are safe for a Gluten-Free Diet?
Rice is naturally gluten free. White, brown, basmati, and jasmine rice contain no gluten proteins and are safe for gluten free diets.
Jump3 Which grains are not safe for Gluten Free Diet?
Barilla Spaghetti is not gluten free because it is made with durum wheat semolina. The allergen list confirms wheat.
Jump4 How to Choose Gluten-Free Grains
If in doubt, avoid grains without full ingredient disclosure or third-party certification.
Jump5 Final Thoughts
Not every grains is safe—look for certified gluten-free labels, check for cross-contamination, and always review ingredients. Stick with trusted brands and use coeliac-friendly databases when shopping.
JumpWhat Does Gluten-Free Grain Mean?
A gluten-free grain must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten and cannot include wheat, barley, rye, or derivatives. Certified gluten-free products are produced in facilities that prevent cross-contamination and are clearly labelled to help shoppers make safe choices. (According to FDA and EU Regulation 828/2014 on gluten-free labeling standards.)
Which grains are safe for a Gluten-Free Diet?
| Product | Details |
|---|---|
| Rice | Rice is naturally gluten free. White, brown, basmati, and jasmine rice contain no gluten proteins and are safe for gluten free diets. |
| Quinoa | Quinoa is naturally gluten free. It is a seed rich in protein and fiber, with no gluten content. Safe for celiac diets. |
| Millet | Millet is gluten free. It is a grainlike seed safe for gluten free diets. Contains no gluten proteins. |
| Buckwheat | Buckwheat is gluten free despite its name. It is a seed used in noodles and flour. Certified gluten free options are available. |
| Sorghum | Sorghum is gluten free. Used in flour and snacks, it is safe for celiac diets. |
Which grains are not safe for Gluten Free Diet?
| Product | Why It’s Not Safe |
|---|---|
| Barilla Spaghetti | Barilla Spaghetti is not gluten free because it is made with durum wheat semolina. The allergen list confirms wheat. This pasta is unsuitable for gluten-sensitive individuals and celiac patients. Despite being a staple, it cannot be consumed on a gluten-free diet safely. |
| Uncle Ben’s Rice & Grains Mix | Uncle Ben’s Grain Mixes are not gluten free because some blends include barley and wheat bulgur. The allergen information lists wheat, making them unsafe for gluten-sensitive individuals or celiac patients. |
| Bob’s Red Mill Wheat Berries | Wheat Berries are not gluten free as they are literally whole wheat grains. These contain high amounts of gluten proteins, making them completely unsuitable for celiac patients or gluten-free diets. |
| Quaker Quick Barley | Quaker Quick Barley is not gluten free because it is made from pearled barley, which naturally contains gluten. The allergen statement confirms barley, making it unsafe for gluten-free diets. |
| Farro (generic brands) | Farro is not gluten free because it is a type of ancient wheat grain. It contains gluten proteins and cannot be consumed by gluten-sensitive or celiac individuals. |
How to Choose Gluten-Free Grains
1If in doubt, avoid grains without full ingredient disclosure or third-party certification.
2Call the manufacturer directly if the gluten status of grains isn’t clearly labelled.
3Check if the grains is produced in a facility that handles gluten—cross-contact is risky.
4Check if the grains is produced in a facility that handles gluten—cross-contact is risky.
5Consult resources like Coeliac UK, FDA (US), or AOECS for up-to-date grains safety lists.
6Refer to manufacturer websites for allergen declarations on grains.
Frequently Asked Questions
? Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions1 What are risky ingredients to watch for in grains?
2 Are all grains brands gluten-free?
3 Are all grains brands gluten-free?
4 What labels or symbols mean grains is gluten-free?
Final Thoughts
Not every grains is safe—look for certified gluten-free labels, check for cross-contamination, and always review ingredients. Stick with trusted brands and use coeliac-friendly databases when shopping.
Our Expert
Drs. Ilse van Asperen
Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor
Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. Read more on Drs. Ilse van Asperen's own website
Our Sources
The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.