Are Rice Krispies Gluten-Free?

Whether you’re on a gluten-free regimen for medical reasons or personal choice, figuring out which foods are safe can be tricky.

Beyond obvious culprits like wheat, barley, and rye, many everyday ingredients may also contain gluten.

Rice Krispies are a well-known cereal and breakfast favorite for many people worldwide.

This piece examines whether Rice Krispies are suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Rice Krispies Ingredients

Rice Krispies are produced from rice, which is inherently gluten-free.

However, some versions include additives or components that can introduce gluten.

For instance, Kellogg’s Rice Krispies contain malt syrup, a sweetening agent made from barley.

Like wheat and rye, barley is a grain that naturally contains gluten (1).

Consequently, people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity should avoid products derived from barley, including malt syrup.

Because of the malt syrup ingredient, Kellogg’s Rice Krispies and most commercial Rice Krispies treats are not appropriate for a gluten-free eating plan.

Summary: Many Rice Krispies cereals and Rice Krispies treats include malt syrup, which contains gluten. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should steer clear of these items.

Gluten-free varieties

Although Kellogg’s version contains gluten, several other manufacturers offer crisped-rice cereals that resemble Rice Krispies but are gluten-free.

Seek out rice-based cereals from brands such as One Degree, Nature’s Path, or Barbara’s — these options are generally safe for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Gluten-free takes on Rice Krispies treats are also sold by companies like Annie’s or Glenny’s.

Make sure to choose items labeled as certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contact and lower your risk of exposure.

Another option is to prepare your own crisped rice cereal treats so you can control every ingredient.

Using a gluten-free rice cereal, you can whip up crisped rice treats with a few simple ingredients like marshmallows, butter, and a pinch of salt.

Summary: Some brands make gluten-free alternatives to Rice Krispies and related treats. You can also prepare your own crisped rice cereal treats for a straightforward, gluten-free snack.

How to check for gluten

When hunting for gluten-free crisped rice cereals, always inspect the ingredient statement closely.

Ingredients that suggest a product may contain gluten include:

• wheat, wheat starch, wheat flour, wheat protein
• rye
• barley, barley flour, barley flakes
• malt, malt extract, malt syrup, malt vinegar, malt flavoring
• brewer’s yeast
• graham flour
• durum
• semolina
• spelt
• bulgur

Also, if you have celiac disease or are sensitive to gluten, prioritize products that carry a certified gluten-free label.

These items must adhere to strict production and manufacturing standards to ensure they are safe for those avoiding gluten (2).

Choosing certified gluten-free products also reduces the chance of cross-contamination, helping prevent adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.

Summary: To locate gluten-free options, read ingredient lists carefully and opt for certified gluten-free products whenever possible.

The bottom line

While there are multiple gluten-free crisped rice cereals and treats on the market, some varieties — notably Kellogg’s Rice Krispies — contain malt syrup, which includes gluten.

When selecting gluten-free options, inspect ingredient lists carefully and look for certified gluten-free labeling.

Or, make your own crisped rice cereal treats at home using a gluten-free rice cereal and a handful of basic ingredients like marshmallows, butter, and salt.

For more on related snacks and ingredients, you may also find this helpful: are saltine crackers healthy.