Is buckwheat flour gluten free ? What is Buckwheat ? These are important questions for those following a strict gluten free diet. First let’s answer the question “Is buckwheat gluten free ?” Here the answer is simple – YES. Buckwheat is gluten free and it is one of the most popular and healthiest alternatives / substitutes to wheat. But when it comes to buckwheat products – flour, bread, pasta, etc. the things are more complicated.
Is buckwheat flour gluten free ? Is it safe gluten free alternative to wheat flour?
Buckwheat flour and other products (bread, pasta, bread crumbs…) can be cross-contaminated with wheat during processing and production. A wide number of companies produce buckwheat and wheat products in the same facility. Generally these products are not safe for people with coeliac disease.
There are also many brands and companies that produce buckwheat flour and other products in a safe facility without wheat. Thus, there is no cross-contamination. These companies offers certified gluten free buckwheat flour. So, the answer of the questions “Is buckwheat flour gluten free ?” and “Is it safe for people with coeliac disease and gluten intolerance?” depends. To be absolutely sure that a product is not cross-contaminated search for certified gluten-free.
Some of the most famous gluten free buckwheat flour brands are: Arrowhead Mills Organic, Doves Farm, Big Oz, Farabella and PureLiving. See also gluten free buckwheat noodles and buckwheat bread brands.
What is buckwheat and what are its health benefits?
What is buckwheat?
Buckwheat is not a cereal grain, although it is prepared such as cereal grains. Buckwheat is a fruit seed that is related to rhubarb and sorrel. It is popular as Grechko or Kasha, which are the Russian names of these healthy gluten free alternative to wheat. Homeland of buckwheat is considered India, but its popularity is greatest in Russia.
Known as “grain for millions,” buckwheat is rich in vitamins and minerals and brings many health benefits to the body. Buckwheat is rich in manganese, cooper, magnesium, phosphorus and also is a great source of fiber. Compared to potatoes and other cereals, buckwheat is low in carbohydrates, wich makes it an excellent food for diabetics and for those who suffer from obesity and overweight.
Buckwheat is becoming more and more popular in culinary. Although it has a slight bitter taste, buckwheat is a delicious ingredient in both savory and sweet recipes.
