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Quick Tips
1Call the manufacturer directly if the gluten status of ancient grains isn’t clearly labelled.
2Always read the label to ensure the ancient grains is certified gluten-free (
3Refer to manufacturer websites for allergen declarations on ancient grains.
# In This Article
5 sectionsQuick navigation to each section of this article:
1 What Does Gluten-Free Ancient Grains Mean?
A gluten-free ancient grains 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 Ancient grains are Safe for a Gluten-Free Diet?
Yes, agave is naturally gluten-free. As a plant-derived sweetener made from the agave plant, it does not contain any wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains.
Jump3 Which Ancient grains are not safe for Gluten Free Diet?
Barley is not gluten-free. It contains a protein called hordein, which is a form of gluten and can trigger reactions in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Jump4 How to Choose Quinoa
Call the manufacturer directly if the gluten status of ancient grains isn’t clearly labelled.
Jump5 Final Thoughts
Reading ingredients isn’t enough. Gluten-free ancient grains must be labelled, tested, and made in safe environments.
JumpWhat Does Gluten-Free Ancient Grains Mean?
A gluten-free ancient grains 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 Ancient grains are Safe for a Gluten-Free Diet?
| Product | Details |
|---|---|
| Agave | Yes, agave is naturally gluten-free. As a plant-derived sweetener made from the agave plant, it does not contain any wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains. |
| Almond Flour | Yes, almond flour is gluten-free. It is made entirely from ground almonds, which naturally do not contain gluten. |
| Almond Meal | Yes, almond meal is naturally gluten-free as it is made solely from ground almonds. It can be safely consumed by people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, provided it has been processed in a facility that prevents cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients. |
| Amaranth | Yes, amaranth is naturally gluten-free. It is a pseudocereal that does not contain the proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye that trigger gluten sensitivities and celiac disease. |
| Amaranth Flour | Yes, amaranth flour is gluten-free. It is made from ground amaranth seeds, which are naturally free of gluten and safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to consume. |
| Arborio Rice | Yes, Arborio rice is naturally gluten-free. Like all varieties of rice, Arborio rice does not contain gluten proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. |
Which Ancient grains are not safe for Gluten Free Diet?
| Product | Why It’s Not Safe |
|---|---|
| Barley | Barley is not gluten-free. It contains a protein called hordein, which is a form of gluten and can trigger reactions in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. |
| Barley Extract | Barley extract typically contains gluten, as barley is one of the grains that naturally contains gluten proteins. Therefore, barley extract is generally not considered gluten-free and should be avoided by individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. |
| Barley Flour | Barley flour is not gluten-free, as barley contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid barley flour and opt for gluten-free alternatives such as rice flour, almond flour, or coconut flour. |
| Barley Malt | Barley malt is not gluten-free, as it is derived from barley, which contains gluten. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid barley malt and products containing it. |
| Barley Malt Extract | Barley malt extract is not gluten-free, as it is derived from barley, which contains gluten. While the malting process may reduce gluten content, it does not eliminate it entirely, so barley malt extract is generally not considered safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. |
| Barley Malt Flour | Barley malt flour is not gluten-free, as barley contains gluten. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid barley malt flour and products made with it. |
How to Choose Quinoa
1Call the manufacturer directly if the gluten status of ancient grains isn’t clearly labelled.
2Always read the label to ensure the ancient grains is certified gluten-free (
3Refer to manufacturer websites for allergen declarations on ancient grains.
4Avoid ancient grains with ambiguous ingredients like ‘malt extract’ or ‘modified starch’ unless certified.
5For high-risk products like ancient grains, only buy from brands that guarantee
6Don’t rely on generic terms like ‘natural flavours’ in ancient grains—they may contain hidden gluten.
Frequently Asked Questions
? Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions1 What labels or symbols mean ancient grains is gluten-free?
2 Can I eat ancient grains on a strict gluten-free diet?
3 What labels or symbols mean ancient grains is gluten-free?
4 Are all ancient grains brands gluten-free?
5 Are all ancient grains brands gluten-free?
Final Thoughts
Reading ingredients isn’t enough. Gluten-free ancient grains must be labelled, tested, and made in safe environments. International products may differ, so double-check before buying.
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.