Is rice gluten free? | Livestrong.com

It is not uncommon to associate gluten with all types of high carbohydrate foods, including rice. But if you’re on a gluten-free diet, you’ll be relieved to learn that rice is naturally gluten-free.

Assuming your rice is not prepared with ingredients made from wheat, rye, or barley, you can add this grain to any dish. But before you buy any rice product, check the packaging for the proper labels.

Served plain or in its natural form, rice is a gluten-free cereal and safe for consumption, according to the Celiac Foundation. And this goes for all types of rice, like brown or basmati.

Available in a variety of colors and shapes, whole grain and brown rice are great sources of fiber, a nutrient that helps regulate digestion and keep you feeling full. Rice is also one of the easiest grains to digest, making it a great option for those on a gluten-free diet, according to the Whole Grains Council.

Plain, plain rice from the grocery store is safe to eat, but that doesn’t mean all rice products or dishes get the green light. As with all processed or prepared foods, you should always be aware of the risk of cross contamination.

Cross-contamination occurs when food touches or comes in contact with gluten-based ingredients, whether during preparation or manufacturing, according to the Celiac Foundation.

Rice stored in the same container or in the same area as a grain containing gluten, for example, can be contaminated, becoming unsafe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

You can prevent and avoid cross-contamination with gluten by checking the packaging and reading the nutrition label on rice-based foods. Rice cakes, rice cereals, and crispy rice treats are all made with rice, but they’re not necessarily gluten-free.

First, check the ingredient label and allergen list for any wheat, rye, or barley. Next, look for a “gluten-free” label on the front of the package. This label is regulated by the United States Food & Drug Administration and means that the foods you eat contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is generally safe for people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.

If you want even higher standards, buy foods that are certified gluten-free by trusted third parties, such as the Gluten Free Certification Organization (GFCO). The GFCO has particularly strict standards, certifying foods that contain only 10 ppm gluten or less, according to the organization’s website.

These brands offer different types of gluten-free rice that can be safely served with your favorite chicken or vegetable dish.

Most RiceSelect plain rice products are gluten free and certified by the GFCO.

Lundberg brown rice (along with many other rice products) is certified gluten-free.

Rani basmati rice is gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO.

Unlike white rice, this gluten-free jasmine rice has a chewy texture and a floral aroma.

Without additives or other ingredients, ONETANG black rice is free from wheat, rye or barley.

With its buttery aroma, red rice is the perfect way to enhance simple dishes.

Sprouted rice is gluten-free and offers a softer texture than other alternatives.

When you cook plain sushi rice at home, it’s usually gluten-free. But in a sushi restaurant, you’ll want to be aware of potential cross-contamination.

If you’re craving a rice-based snack, try these gluten-free options from trusted brands.

These puffed brown rice snacks are subtly sweet.

Good Thins are a delicious gluten-free alternative to crackers.

For a light dessert that’s not too sweet, try the Drizzilicious line of mini rice cakes.

Wake up to a bowl of these rice cereal or enjoy it as a nightcap.