Are Filipino Rice Noodles Gluten-Free?

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, a food product can be labeled gluten-free if it contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. When asking, "Are Filipino rice noodles gluten-free?", the answer largely depends on the specific noodle type, as rice-based versions like Bihon are naturally made without gluten, though careful label checking is crucial.

Quick Summary

This guide explains the gluten content of different Filipino rice noodles, focusing on the naturally gluten-free Bihon variety. It covers key ingredients to look for, potential cross-contamination risks, and provides safe brands for those on a strict gluten-free diet. The article also offers tips for ensuring a gluten-free meal when dining out.

Key Points

Bihon Noodles are Naturally Gluten-Free: Filipino rice noodles, particularly the thin rice vermicelli known as Bihon, are made from rice flour and water, making them naturally free of gluten.
Not All Filipino Noodles are Gluten-Free: Some Filipino noodles, such as Canton (wheat-based) and Lomi (egg noodles), contain gluten and should be avoided on a gluten-free diet.
Check Labels Carefully: While Bihon is typically gluten-free, always check the packaging for other ingredients like wheat starch and look for a certified “gluten-free” label to ensure safety.
Beware of Gluten in Sauces: A complete Filipino noodle dish may contain gluten from sauces like regular soy sauce. Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute.
Consider Cross-Contamination: For individuals with celiac disease, be mindful of cross-contamination in both home kitchens and restaurants, as utensils and cooking surfaces can harbor gluten.
Look for Safe Brands: Brands like Excellent and Super Q offer Bihon noodles that are reliable gluten-free options.

Understanding Filipino Rice Noodles

Filipino cuisine features a wide variety of noodle dishes known as pancit. The gluten content of these dishes depends entirely on the type of noodle used. While some noodles, like Pancit Canton, are made from wheat and contain gluten, others are naturally gluten-free because they are derived from rice. The most common Filipino rice noodles are Bihon and Palabok, which are made primarily from rice flour or starch. However, consumers must remain vigilant, as ingredients can sometimes vary between brands and cross-contamination is a risk.

The Gluten-Free Status of Bihon Noodles

Bihon, or rice stick noodles, are typically made from a combination of rice flour, water, and sometimes cornstarch to improve their texture. Since rice and corn are naturally gluten-free, traditional Bihon noodles do not contain gluten. This makes them a safe and popular choice for a gluten-free diet, especially when prepared with gluten-free sauces and other ingredients. Bihon is commonly used in Pancit Bihon, a staple dish at Filipino gatherings.

To be certain of the gluten-free status of Bihon noodles, always read the ingredients list on the packaging. Reputable brands that are certified gluten-free are the safest option for those with celiac disease. In general, thin, translucent, and dried rice vermicelli-style noodles like Bihon are made from rice and water, though a thickening agent like tapioca or cornstarch is often added to improve their elasticity.

Other Filipino Noodles to Watch Out For

Not all Filipino noodles are gluten-free. For those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, it is essential to know which types to avoid.

Canton Noodles: These are made with wheat flour and eggs and are not gluten-free. They are similar to lo mein and are used in dishes like Pancit Canton.
Miki Noodles: These are fresh or dried egg noodles made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free.
Lomi Noodles: These are thick, yellow egg noodles, which are also made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free.
Misua Noodles: These are extremely thin, salted noodles made from wheat flour and are typically used in soups.

The Importance of Cross-Contamination and Sauces

Even when using a naturally gluten-free noodle like Bihon, the final dish can contain gluten if other ingredients are not checked. Sauces are a common culprit for hidden gluten. For example, traditional soy sauce is fermented with wheat and is not gluten-free. To make a truly gluten-free Pancit, you must use certified gluten-free soy sauce or alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos.

Additionally, cross-contamination is a major concern when eating out. Even if a restaurant uses rice noodles, the dish could be cooked in a pan or with utensils previously used for wheat-based noodles. This is particularly important for individuals with celiac disease, who can react to very small amounts of gluten. Always communicate your dietary needs clearly when ordering to ensure your meal is prepared safely.

Comparison of Common Filipino Noodles


Feature	Bihon (Rice Noodles)	Canton (Wheat Noodles)	Miki (Egg Noodles)
Primary Ingredient	Rice flour and water	Wheat flour and eggs	Wheat flour and eggs
Gluten Status	Gluten-free (naturally)	Contains gluten	Contains gluten
Typical Dish	Pancit Bihon	Pancit Canton	Pancit Miki
Appearance	Thin, fine, translucent	Thicker, yellowish, similar to lo mein	Thicker, round or flat, yellow
Texture	Chewy, firm	Chewy, springy	Soft, pliable
Preparation	Often soaked in warm water before cooking	Cooked directly in sauce	Often sold fresh or partially cooked
Dietary Consideration	Safe for gluten-free diets, but check ingredients and cross-contamination	Not suitable for gluten-free diets	Not suitable for gluten-free diets

Reading Labels for Gluten-Free Assurance

For the safest options, always look for products that are explicitly labeled “gluten-free” on the packaging. This ensures the product meets legal standards for gluten content. When evaluating rice noodles, check the ingredient list for any unexpected starches or flours that might contain gluten. While rice and cornstarch are safe, watch out for wheat starch or other ingredients that can introduce gluten. Brands like Excellent and Super Q offer Bihon products that are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

In summary, Filipino rice noodles, particularly Bihon, are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe choice for those avoiding gluten. However, it is essential to be a diligent label-reader, especially when purchasing noodles or other ingredients like soy sauce. By understanding the different types of pancit noodles and the risk of cross-contamination, you can enjoy delicious Filipino cuisine without compromising your health. For optimal safety, always opt for certified gluten-free products and be transparent about your dietary needs when dining out.

Ensuring a Safe Gluten-Free Filipino Meal

Creating a gluten-free Filipino meal involves more than just selecting the right noodles. It requires attention to detail throughout the cooking and preparation process.

Verify all sauces: Many traditional Filipino sauces, including soy sauce and oyster sauce, contain wheat. Use gluten-free alternatives like tamari, coconut aminos, or certified gluten-free versions of these sauces.
Check other ingredients: Ensure that other components, such as bouillon cubes or marinades, do not contain gluten. Some brands use wheat as a thickener or filler.
Be aware of cross-contamination: When cooking at home, use dedicated or thoroughly cleaned utensils, cutting boards, and pans. In a restaurant, confirm that your dish will be cooked in a separate area or with fresh, uncontaminated equipment.

For delicious and safe Filipino food, the gluten-free diet is easily accommodated with the right knowledge and precautions. The availability of naturally gluten-free rice noodles like Bihon ensures that dishes like Pancit Bihon can be enjoyed by everyone, including those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Authoritative Link

For more information on living with celiac disease and understanding food labels, consult the Celiac Disease Foundation website, which provides comprehensive resources and guidelines for a gluten-free lifestyle. https://celiac.org/gluten-free-living/gluten-free-foods/label-reading-the-fda/

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common Filipino rice noodles that are gluten-free are Bihon, or rice stick noodles, which are made from rice flour and water. Always check the ingredient list for potential additives.

No, Pancit Canton is not gluten-free. It uses a noodle made from wheat flour and eggs, which contains gluten.

No, traditional soy sauce contains wheat and is not gluten-free. For a truly gluten-free dish, use a certified gluten-free soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos.

Bihon noodles are primarily made from rice flour and water. Some variations may include cornstarch or tapioca starch to improve texture and consistency.

Inform your server about your gluten sensitivity or celiac disease and ask if they can prepare your rice noodle dish separately with clean, dedicated equipment to avoid cross-contamination from other noodle types.

While most rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, some varieties might be processed with wheat flour or a shared production line. It is always safest to check the ingredients and look for a gluten-free certification, especially for fresh noodles.

Yes, some brands, such as Excellent and Super Q, provide rice stick noodles (Bihon) that are typically made from naturally gluten-free ingredients. Always look for a clear gluten-free label to be certain.