WHAT IS GLUTEN?
Gluten is the protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and triticale. It is basically the glue that holds everything together.
HOW DO I AVOID GLUTEN?
Many companies label their products gluten free or certified gluten free. . Some companies produce their products in a facility that also process wheat, but they are labeled gluten free. If you have an extreme sensitivity you should purchase products that are certified gluten free.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN A PRODUCT IS LABELED CERTIFIED GLUTEN FREE?
When a product is labeled Certified Gluten-Free it means that the product’s gluten-free claim has been verified by an independent organization. Under GFCO guidelines, products made according to GFCO requirements, must contain less than 10 ppm of gluten, and use ingredients that contain less than 10 ppm of gluten.
WHICH GRAINS ARE SAFE?
The following grains and other starch-containing foods are naturally gluten-free:
- Rice
- Cassava
- Corn (maize)
- Soy
- Potato
- Tapioca
- Beans
- Sorghum
- Quinoa
- Millet
- Buckwheat groats (also known as kasha)
- Arrowroot
- Amaranth
- Teff
- Flax
- Chia
- Yucca
- Gluten-free oats
- Nut flours
Some research shows that naturally gluten-free grains may contain gluten from cross-contact with gluten-containing grains through harvesting and processing. If you are very sensitive, you should purchase only versions that are tested for the presence of gluten and contain less than 20 ppm.
DOES WHEAT FREE MEAN IT IS GLUTEN FREE?
If a product is labeled wheat free it does not mean it is gluten free. All wheat contains gluten, but all gluten does not come from wheat.
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF PACKAGED FOOD IS GLUTEN FREE?
- It has a gluten free label.
- Check your allergen list. Some packages will list the allergens, such as, wheat, eggs, soy, milk, and nuts. If there is no list remember to check the ingredient list.
- Check for obvious ingredients- wheat, rye, barley,malt, brewers yeast, and oats. Also, check for hidden gluten, such as maltodextrin, hydrolyzed protein, or natural flavors.