This is a very common question for people trying to follow a gluten free diet. It can be confusing since oats are a gluten-free grain, but many oatmeal products sold in stores are not labeled as gluten free. There's a reason.
The problem with oats is that they can easily be mixed, or come into contact, with gluten grains, like wheat. And if that happens, then the oat product you're buying would not be gluten free.So, this essentially boils down to companies who are willing to take the steps necessary to ensure the oats they buy and sell remain gluten free - or that steps are taken to eliminate any cross contamination.
The good news is that there are companies doing this and you can find gluten free oatmeal on store shelves. So to answer this question - is oatmeal gluten free - the answer is, it can be gluten free. You just need to be aware of the product your buying, read the labels and look for a brand you trust.
I'm not personally endorsing any products here, nor is this a product review, but to give you a sense of what's out there, here's some examples.
Gluten free oatmeal
- Quaker Gluten Free Oats: In the familiar cylindrical container, Quaker offers a quick-cooking gluten free oatmeal.
- Quaker Instant Gluten Free Oatmeal: If you prefer the instant oatmeal packets, Quaker offers this as well in a variety of flavors.
- Bob's Red Mill Old Fashioned Gluten Free Rolled Oats: You'll find Bob's in stores that offer
organic foods and in store aisles featuring gluten-free products. This is pricier, but respected. - Live G Free Gluten Free Quick Cook Oats: Lower cost options? Yes, if you have an Aldi's near you, look for gluten free oatmeal there under the
Live G Free brand.
Like many gluten free products, the variety and pricing for gluten free oatmeal has greatly improved over the last 20 years. If you like oatmeal, you should find one of these options near you.