Are There Any Cornflakes That Are Gluten-Free?

November 25, 2025 •

3 min read

While corn is a naturally gluten-free grain, most standard cornflakes, including those from major brands like Kellogg's, are not gluten-free because they contain malt flavoring derived from barley. Fortunately, several brands specifically formulate and certify cornflakes to be gluten-free, ensuring a safe option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

Despite being made from corn, most commercial cornflakes are not gluten-free due to the inclusion of barley malt extract, which contains gluten. This guide explores the reasons behind this, lists certified gluten-free cornflake brands available, and provides crucial tips for reading labels to avoid cross-contamination for a safe breakfast.

Key Points

Malt is the problem: Most traditional cornflakes are not gluten-free because they contain malt flavoring derived from barley, which is a gluten-containing grain.
Look for certification: For a truly gluten-free option, always choose cornflakes that are clearly labeled 'gluten-free' and preferably carry a certification logo like the GFCO mark.
Check ingredients: Always read the ingredients list to ensure there is no 'barley malt extract' or other gluten-containing ingredients, even if the brand seems safe.
Beware of cross-contamination: The manufacturing process can introduce gluten. Certified gluten-free products are made with precautions to prevent this.
Choose the right brand: Several brands, including Nature's Path and EnviroKidz, offer reliable certified gluten-free cornflakes.
Not all cornflakes are equal: Don't assume all cornflakes are safe; many popular brands are not, so label scrutiny is essential.

Why Most Cornflakes Are Not Gluten-Free

Corn is a naturally gluten-free grain, so it is a common misconception that all cornflakes are safe for a gluten-free diet. The primary issue lies in the flavoring. Many traditional cornflake manufacturers use malt flavoring, typically derived from barley, which is a gluten-containing grain. This ingredient is added to enhance the cereal's flavor profile, but its presence makes the final product unsuitable for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. Furthermore, even if a brand does not add a malt-based flavoring, there is still a significant risk of cross-contamination. Many cereals are manufactured in facilities that also process gluten-containing grains like wheat and barley, meaning particles can inadvertently mix during processing. For individuals with celiac disease, even tiny amounts of gluten can trigger a severe autoimmune reaction, making certified gluten-free products essential.

Finding Certified Gluten-Free Cornflakes

For those who need to avoid gluten, the key is to look for brands that specifically label and certify their products as gluten-free. These manufacturers take extra steps to ensure their cereals contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, the standard set by regulatory bodies for gluten-free products. This is typically achieved by sourcing ingredients that are free from gluten and producing the cereal in a dedicated gluten-free facility or with strict controls to prevent cross-contamination. Always look for a clear 'Gluten-Free' label or a certification logo from an organization like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).

Popular Certified Gluten-Free Cornflake Brands

Nature's Path Organic Corn Flakes: This brand offers several options, including a version sweetened with fruit juice concentrate, and is certified gluten-free.
Nestlé GoFree Corn Flakes: Found in some international markets, these cornflakes are certified by Coeliac UK and made with ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
EnviroKidz Amazon Flakes: A product of Nature's Path, this cereal is certified gluten-free by the GFCO and is known for its classic taste and texture.
Erewhon Corn Flakes: This brand provides a simple, organic, and certified gluten-free option with just two ingredients: organic milled corn and sea salt.
Dr. Schar Gluten-Free Corn Flakes: A specialized European brand focusing on gluten-free foods, their cornflakes are widely available.

The Critical Difference: Comparing Standard and Gluten-Free Cornflakes

This comparison highlights the key differences between standard and certified gluten-free cornflakes, focusing on the critical ingredients for gluten-sensitive individuals.


Feature	Standard Cornflakes (e.g., Kellogg's Original)	Certified Gluten-Free Cornflakes (e.g., Nature's Path)
Key Flavoring	Contains malt flavoring (from barley).	Avoids malt and other gluten-containing flavorings.
Gluten Content	Contains gluten due to the barley malt.	Less than 20 ppm gluten, as per certification standards.
Ingredients	Milled corn, sugar, malt flavoring, salt.	Primarily milled corn, sugar/fruit juice, salt.
Manufacturing	Produced on shared equipment with other cereals containing gluten (high cross-contamination risk).	Produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility or with strict cross-contamination protocols.
Labeling	Clearly states 'contains gluten' or no 'gluten-free' label is present.	Must have a 'Gluten-Free' claim or certification logo.

Label Reading and Risk Awareness

Learning to read food labels is crucial for anyone on a gluten-free diet. The presence of 'malt flavoring' or 'barley malt extract' is a clear red flag indicating the product is not safe. However, the absence of these ingredients doesn't guarantee safety from cross-contamination unless the product is certified. Some products may list 'contains wheat' but not 'gluten,' which is also a clear indicator of gluten presence. Always check for a reputable gluten-free certification logo. The Certified Gluten-Free label from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) is a reliable mark to look for. Additionally, keep in mind that ingredients and manufacturing processes can change, so it's a good practice to periodically re-check labels, even for products you've purchased before.

Conclusion

In summary, while the core ingredient of cornflakes is naturally gluten-free corn, the majority of conventional cornflakes are not safe for a gluten-free diet due to the inclusion of barley malt flavoring. For those needing or choosing to avoid gluten, the market offers reliable, certified gluten-free alternatives from brands like Nature's Path, EnviroKidz, and Erewhon. By carefully checking product labels for clear gluten-free certification marks and understanding the risks of cross-contamination, you can confidently enjoy a bowl of crispy, golden flakes without compromising your dietary needs. Always prioritize products with clear, unambiguous gluten-free labeling for peace of mind. For more information on reading labels for gluten, visit a resource like the Celiac Disease Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Kellogg's Original Corn Flakes are not gluten-free in the U.S. because they contain malt flavoring derived from barley, a gluten-containing grain.

Many brands add malt flavoring, which is made from barley, to enhance the taste of the cereal. This addition introduces gluten, making the product unsafe for a gluten-free diet.

Look for a clear 'Gluten-Free' label or a third-party certification logo, such as from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), on the packaging.

Yes, a significant risk exists if cornflakes are made in a facility that also processes gluten-containing grains. Certified gluten-free products minimize this risk through dedicated equipment or strict protocols.

Brands that offer certified gluten-free options include Nature's Path, EnviroKidz (from Nature's Path), Erewhon, and Dr. Schar.

Corn itself is naturally gluten-free, but the manufacturing and flavoring process of most cornflakes means the final product is not. You must look for brands explicitly labeled and certified as gluten-free.

If you have any form of gluten sensitivity, it is still advisable to choose certified gluten-free cornflakes to avoid triggering symptoms. The malt in standard cornflakes contains gluten and can cause adverse reactions.