There are a lot of people who are looking for ways to remove gluten from the diet. Some people have celiac disease, which is a specific medical condition that renders them intolerant to gluten. There are some people who have a wheat allergy, gluten intolerance, or other conditions that make it unhealthy for them to consume gluten. Individuals with these medical conditions can develop intestinal damage, bloating, serious diarrhea, or headaches if they consume gluten.
One of the most popular snacks out there is popcorn. Therefore, a lot of people are wondering if popcorn is gluten-free.
First, people need to understand that popcorn is made from a specific type of corn kernel. When this kernel is heated, it pops open. That is the sound of popping that people hear if they place on top kernels in the microwave.
The good news is that most popcorn is gluten-free. Because popcorn is made from corn, instead of we, it doesn’t usually contain gluten. Furthermore, for individuals who suffer from celiac disease, corn is commonly recommended as a safe alternative to traditional wheat products. Therefore, a lot of people who cannot tolerate gluten are used to enjoying corn products instead. For example, people who like to eat soft tacos may use corn tortillas instead of wheat tortillas. Of course, before someone decides to enjoy popcorn, it is a good idea to speak with a trained medical professional to make sure they can tolerate corn products. Some people have a sensitivity to corn as well.
When is Popcorn not Gluten-Free?
Even though the vast majority of popcorn is naturally free from gluten, there are certain commercial brands that may still possess gluten proteins. For example, some companies make their popcorn in a facility that also manufacturers food that contains gluten. If companies use the same equipment to make popcorn and gluten products, it is possible that popcorn may be contaminated with gluten. Even though people may not necessarily be able to taste the gluten in popcorn when they eat it, it is possible it could be contaminated on a microscopic level. Therefore, this could still lead to a reaction in individuals who suffer from celiac disease.
In addition, it is critical to take a look at the flavorings or additives that are used to make popcorn taste better. For example, a lot of people like to try popcorn with different flavors on it. They might enjoy popcorn with caramel, cheese, chocolate, or certain types of powder. Even if the popcorn does not contain gluten, it is possible that these flavor additives may contain gluten themselves. This is just something else that people need to consider if they are thinking about eating popcorn.
There are specific additives that people need to watch out for because they do contain gluten. Some of the most common examples include soy sauce, yeast, wheat starch, and malt flavoring. All of these additives may contain gluten. Therefore, individuals with gluten intolerance and celiac disease need to stay away from these flavors.
Choose a Popcorn Without Gluten
In people who are trying to avoid gluten but still eat popcorn, it is important to read the label carefully. Those who are particularly sensitive to gluten need to select a popcorn that does not have any flavorings or additives at all. Take a look at the ingredient list. Choose a product that only popcorn and salt. Furthermore, it is a good idea to select products that have been labeled as being free from gluten. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that products labeled gluten-free contain fewer than 20 ppm of gluten. If this certification is present, the popcorn is probably safe.
Finally, anyone who does suffer a reaction to gluten has to make sure they stay properly hydrated. It is a good idea to meet with a trained medical professional if symptoms begin to arise. Overall, even though most popcorn is gluten-free, it is still important for people to be careful, particularly if they are eating popcorn that contains certain flavors. Gluten intolerance can be serious, particularly in people who have celiac disease. Fortunately, the vast majority of popcorn should be free from gluten, making it safe to eat.