Gluten-Free Corn Chips: What Australians Need To Know

are corn chips gluten free australia

For those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, finding gluten-free snacks can be challenging and expensive. According to Australian standards, oats cannot be labelled as gluten-free, and gluten can be found in many unexpected places, such as soy, thickeners, and starches. However, there is a wide range of gluten-free options available in Australia, including corn chips. Gluten-free corn chips offer a tasty and safe alternative for those with gluten sensitivities, and they can be found in various flavours and forms, such as organic, shiitake mushroom, and sour cream.

Characteristics Values
Corn chips availability Organic, Sour Cream, Sea Salt, BBQ, Hot & Spicy, Sweet Chilli, Original
Gluten-free options 10 Points Health Magic Gluten-Free Corn Chips
Tisa Pure Natural Corn Snacks
Chappys Potato Chips
Good Crisp Company Classic Original Potato Crisps
Boulder Canyon Avocado Oil Sea Salt Potato Chips
DJ&A Broccoli Florets
Australian standards Oats cannot be labelled gluten-free

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Gluten-free corn chips are available in Australia

The Sunnybrook Health Store, for example, sells 10 Points Health Magic Gluten-Free Corn Chips (Organic) 500g for $9.50. The Australian Food Shop also has a category for gluten-free chips, although it is unclear whether these are corn chips or potato chips.

When it comes to potato chips, those that are simply made with potato, oil, and salt are gluten-free. However, flavoured options may contain gluten due to ingredients like soy, thickeners, and starches. Nevertheless, there is a growing range of gluten-free options available, so it is worth checking the labels to find corn chips that suit your taste.

It is important to note that according to Australian standards, oats cannot be labelled as gluten-free. This highlights the necessity of reading food labels carefully when managing coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.

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Oats are not considered gluten-free in Australia

In Australia, oats are not considered gluten-free. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) prohibits the use of a 'gluten-free' claim on products containing oats. This is because avenin, a protein found in oats, is considered a type of gluten. While most people with coeliac disease can tolerate pure oats without adverse symptoms, there is currently no way to predict who will react to them. As a result, Coeliac Australia recommends that individuals consult their medical specialist and dietitian before introducing pure oats to their gluten-free diet.

The Australian food code's treatment of oats as non-gluten-free differs from the regulations in Europe, the UK, and the USA, where pure oats can be labelled and marketed as 'gluten-free'. In these regions, 'gluten-free' oats refer to uncontaminated oats with no measurable contamination from wheat, rye, or barley. However, in Australia, there is no legislation mandating what uncontaminated or pure oats should be called, making it challenging to identify oats suitable for those with coeliac disease.

To address this challenge, some Australian oat producers use terminology such as 'wheat-free', 'low gluten', 'uncontaminated', or 'pure'. However, these claims are not regulated, and products bearing these labels may still contain rye or barley contamination. Coeliac Australia is currently collating information from oat producers about the suitability of their products for individuals with coeliac disease and measures taken to manage cross-contact. This information will be made available on their website to help consumers make informed decisions.

While oats are not considered gluten-free in Australia, Coeliac Australia acknowledges their nutritional benefits, which may outweigh the potential risks of including them in a gluten-free diet. Pure oats can help boost fibre intake, enhance food choices, and provide beneficial nutrients such as quality protein, soluble and insoluble fibres, vitamins, and minerals. Therefore, Coeliac Australia encourages individuals with coeliac disease to proactively discuss the suitability of pure oats with their dietitian and specialist.

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Gluten-free options when eating out in Australia

Australia is a gluten-free-friendly country, and most restaurants have gluten-free options available. Here are some tips for gluten-free options when eating out in Australia:

Research and Plan Ahead

Before you go out to eat, take some time to research the restaurants in the area. Many restaurants have their menus listed on their websites, so you can check if they have gluten-free options marked. If not, give them a call to discuss your needs and see if they can accommodate any alterations to their menu items.

Consult Resources

Coeliac Australia offers a restaurant finder and a gluten-free standard for food service providers. They also have a helpline that you can call for more information. Additionally, look for the 'crossed grain logo', which is recognised in Australia and indicates that a food item is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Ask Questions and Confirm

When you arrive at the restaurant, inform the waiter about your gluten-free requirements. Confirm that the meal you choose is gluten-free or can be made gluten-free. Be realistic in your expectations, as not every item on the menu will be gluten-free, especially those containing bread, pasta, or crumbed items.

Be Prepared for Costs

Understand that gluten-free alternatives may cost the restaurant more to source, so you may have to pay more for certain dishes. Recognise that the restaurant has taken the effort to cater to gluten-free patrons, and don't be afraid to question the meal if something doesn't seem right.

Share Your Experience

If you had a positive gluten-free dining experience, consider sending your thanks to the chef or leaving a positive review for the restaurant. This can help other gluten-free diners and encourage restaurants to continue improving their gluten-free offerings.

Remember, a gluten-free diet may be medically necessary for those with coeliac disease or other conditions, but it is always a good idea to seek guidance from a dietitian to ensure your diet is balanced and meets your individual needs.

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Gluten-free sweet treats and snacks in Australia

Australia has a wide range of gluten-free sweet treats and snacks to satisfy your cravings. For those with a sweet tooth, there are various options available, including chocolate bars, cookies, and cakes. Fodbods, for instance, offers a variety of indulgent treats such as Double Chocolate bars with chunks of almond, Choc Mint bars, and Hazelnut Mocha protein bars.

If you're looking for something fruity and addictive, Fodbod Buddies are a great option with their sweet coconut and chocolate combination. They are also free from common allergens like nuts, soy, and dairy. For a healthier option, Fodbods' Ginger Spice and Rosemary Sea Salt Nibbles provide a crunchy, nutritious bite with ingredients like sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and buckwheat kernels.

When it comes to gluten-free snacks, there are several chip options available in Australia. You can find gluten-free corn chips, such as the Natural Chip Co. Corn Sea Salt Chips, or explore other varieties like the Australian Gluten-Free Care Packages, which offer a range of sweet and savoury Aussie snacks.

Additionally, for a quick on-the-go bite, gluten-free protein bars are a convenient option. Fodbods offers a Cookies & Cream bar, as well as unique flavours like Strawberry Shortcake, combining the taste of strawberry, cream, and sponge cake. These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while also providing a nutritious boost.

Whether you're looking for indulgent treats or healthier alternatives, Australia has a diverse selection of gluten-free sweet treats and snacks to accommodate your dietary needs and preferences.

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Gluten-free alternatives to pasta in Australia

There are plenty of gluten-free pasta alternatives available in Australia. These alternatives are perfect for those with gluten allergies or celiac disease. Many of these options are also low in carbs and calories, making them a healthier alternative to traditional pasta.

One option is to use gluten-free grains like buckwheat, which is commonly used in traditional Japanese soba noodles. Other gluten-free grains that can be used in pasta include rice, corn, and oats. However, according to Australian standards, oats cannot be labelled as gluten-free. Cassava flour is also a relatively new grain-free and gluten-free alternative.

If you're looking for pasta made from ingredients other than grains, there are plenty of options to choose from. Bean thread pasta, for example, is traditionally used in various Asian cuisines and has a fine, silky-smooth texture. You can also find pasta made from legumes like lentils, peas, and beans. Adzuki bean spaghetti, for instance, is rich in protein, fibre, and folic acid and cooks al dente without getting soggy. Edamame spaghetti is another option, with a naturally green colour and a high protein and fibre content.

For those who want to avoid pasta altogether, there are creative ways to replace pasta with vegetables. Zucchini noodles, also known as "zoodles", have gained popularity, with several companies now offering appliances specifically for creating them. Eggplant can also be cut into thin slices to replace pasta sheets. Baked squash is another option that easily forks apart into long, thin strands and pairs well with hearty ragout.

When choosing a gluten-free pasta alternative, it's important to consider the base ingredient for allergens, flavour, and texture. Some options may work better for specific dishes, such as baked pasta or cold noodle salads. With so many alternatives available, those living gluten-free can enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious options.

Frequently asked questions

Corn chips are gluten-free in Australia, but it is important to check the ingredients list for flavoured corn chips as common ingredients such as soy, thickeners, and starches can be sources of added gluten.

Yes, potato chips that are made with just potato, oil, and salt are gluten-free.

Yes, rice noodles, Nesquik, ice cream (Weis bars and sorbets), and organic chocolate (Pana range) are some examples of gluten-free options available in Australia.

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