Is Barley Gluten Free?

Gluten verdict for Barley: Not Gluten Free

Not Gluten Free Barley

Contains gluten.

AU FSANZ & Coeliac Australia US FDA

Rated against the stricter of the two standards. Compare AU and US rules

Barley contains hordein, a gluten-like protein that affects coeliac sufferers. It's often hidden in malts and beer.

Coeliac Disease

Avoid entirely. Barley malt appears in many processed foods.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Avoid completely. NCGS can be triggered by barley proteins.

Why Does Barley Contain Gluten?

Barley grains contain prolamin proteins similar to wheat gluten. Used extensively in brewing and flavouring.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ requires barley to be declared as a gluten-containing cereal.

United States (FDA)

Barley is not one of the major allergens the FDA requires to be declared (only wheat is), but it contains gluten, so it is barred from foods labelled gluten free.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts

Per 100g · Typical serve: 100 g (hulled, dry)

Energy1473 kJ / 352 kcal

Protein9.9g

Fat, total1.2g

Saturated fat0.2g

Carbohydrate77.7g

Sugars0.8g

Dietary fibre15.6g

Sodium9mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Malt-free alternatives, sorghum malt, rice malt, buckwheat, Malts, brewing products, flavouring agents, gravy mixes.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Barley gluten free?

Barley contains hordein, a gluten-like protein that affects coeliac sufferers. It's often hidden in malts and beer.

Can coeliacs eat barley?

Avoid entirely. Barley malt appears in many processed foods.

Related Foods in Grains and Cereals

Not GF, not gluten free Wheat Not GF, not gluten free Rye Not GF, not gluten free Oats GF, gluten free White Rice GF, gluten free Brown Rice GF, gluten free Wild Rice GF, gluten free Corn/Maize GF, gluten free Quinoa

More from RefDat

Looking for kitchen gear that handles gluten-free cooking? See RefDat's Australian reviews of rice cookers for coeliac-friendly options. Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ, Coeliac Australia

Last reviewed: July 2026