Are Rice Bubbles Gluten Free?
Gluten verdict for Rice Bubbles: Not Gluten Free
Standard Rice Bubbles contain barley malt and are not gluten free.
Rated against the stricter of the two standards. Compare AU and US rules
Rice is gluten free, but Rice Bubbles (and Rice Krispies) add barley malt extract, which contains gluten.
Coeliac Disease
Avoid standard Rice Bubbles. Choose a puffed rice cereal labelled gluten free.
Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)
Same as coeliac guidance.
Why Do Rice Bubbles Contain Gluten?
Barley malt extract is barley-derived and contains gluten.
Australia vs United States
Australia (FSANZ)
FSANZ requires barley to be declared. Kellogg's Rice Bubbles in Australia contain barley malt extract and are not gluten free.
United States (FDA)
The FDA permits a gluten free label below 20 ppm. Standard US Rice Krispies also use barley malt and are not gluten free.
What to Watch For
Barley malt extract in the ingredient list.
Gluten Free Alternatives
If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Certified gluten free puffed rice cereal, plain rice cakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Rice Bubbles gluten free?
Rice is gluten free, but Rice Bubbles (and Rice Krispies) add barley malt extract, which contains gluten.
Can coeliacs eat rice bubbles?
Avoid standard Rice Bubbles. Choose a puffed rice cereal labelled gluten free.
Related Foods in Processed Foods
More from RefDat
Looking for kitchen gear that handles gluten-free cooking? See RefDat's Australian reviews of food processors 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
Coeliac Australia, FSANZ, manufacturer allergen statement
Last reviewed: July 2026