Is Kellogg's Frosted Flakes Cereal Gluten Free? The Definitive Answer

January 3, 2026 •

3 min read

According to Kellogg's official website, the original Frosted Flakes cereal contains barley malt flavoring, a source of gluten. This means the popular breakfast item is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

An in-depth look at why Kellogg's Frosted Flakes are not gluten-free, including a breakdown of the problematic ingredient. This guide also explores safe alternatives for those following a gluten-free diet and explains how to read product labels correctly.

Key Points

Not Gluten-Free: Original Kellogg's Frosted Flakes contain barley malt flavoring, a source of gluten, making them unsafe for a gluten-free diet.
Ingredient Alert: The presence of barley malt is the key reason the cereal is not gluten-free, despite being made primarily from corn.
Read Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredient list for 'barley malt extract' or similar gluten-containing ingredients, regardless of the primary grain.
Gluten-Free Alternatives Exist: Safe options are available from other brands or store 'free from' ranges, specifically labeled as gluten-free.
Choose Certified Products: Look for a 'certified gluten-free' label to guarantee the product is free from gluten and cross-contamination.
Celiac Safety: The 20 ppm standard for gluten-free products is not met by original Frosted Flakes due to the malt flavoring.

Why Original Kellogg's Frosted Flakes Are Not Gluten Free

For many, a bowl of Frosted Flakes is a nostalgic breakfast favorite. However, for those managing celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, this classic cereal is off-limits. The main culprit is barley malt extract, an ingredient used for flavoring that is derived from the gluten-containing grain, barley. This is a common point of confusion, as the primary ingredient is corn, which is naturally gluten-free. Unfortunately, the presence of barley malt, even in small quantities, makes the cereal unsafe for anyone adhering to a strict gluten-free diet.

The Role of Barley Malt in Cereal

Barley malt extract is often used in cereals and other processed foods to enhance sweetness and create a unique flavor profile. It is not just present in Frosted Flakes but also in many other conventional cereals from Kellogg's and other brands. For individuals with gluten-related disorders, it's crucial to look beyond the main grain and scrutinize the entire ingredient list for any mention of malt flavoring, barley, or wheat.

Understanding Celiac vs. Gluten Sensitivity

Both celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity require avoiding gluten. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption, leading to damage in the small intestine. Gluten sensitivity causes similar symptoms but does not involve the autoimmune response. In both cases, consuming foods with gluten can cause adverse health effects. The 20 parts per million (ppm) standard is the globally recognized threshold for gluten-free certification, and the barley malt in Frosted Flakes puts it far above this safe level.

Are There Any Gluten-Free Frosted Flakes?

While Kellogg's original version is not safe, some dedicated gluten-free brands or grocery store 'free from' ranges offer safe alternatives. It is always imperative to check the packaging for a certified gluten-free label. Look for brands that are specifically produced in gluten-free facilities to avoid cross-contamination issues. Some examples include certain versions of corn flakes and store-brand options that use only corn, sugar, and salt without the addition of malt flavoring.

Gluten-Free Cereal Alternatives to Frosted Flakes

For those who love the crunchy, sweet taste of Frosted Flakes but need to avoid gluten, there are numerous safe and delicious options available. Look for cereals that are certified gluten-free to ensure they are safe from cross-contamination.

List of Popular Gluten-Free Cereals

Chex: Many Chex varieties, including Rice Chex and Corn Chex, are labeled gluten-free.
Crispy Rice Cereal: Look for store brands or specialty gluten-free versions of crispy rice cereal, as Kellogg's Rice Krispies contain barley malt extract.
EnviroKidz: This brand offers a variety of organic and certified gluten-free cereals, including 'Amazon Flakes,' which are a popular alternative.
Simple Truth Organic Frosted Flakes: Some store brands, like Kroger's Simple Truth line, produce frosted corn flakes that use minimal ingredients and are certified gluten-free.

Reading Labels for Gluten

Becoming a savvy label reader is critical for anyone on a gluten-free diet. The following ingredients indicate the presence of gluten and should be avoided:

Wheat, including farina, spelt, and durum
Barley, including malt flavoring and barley malt extract
Rye
Oats, unless they are specifically certified gluten-free
Brewer's yeast

Comparison: Kellogg's Frosted Flakes vs. Gluten-Free Alternatives


Feature	Kellogg's Frosted Flakes (Original)	Certified Gluten-Free Alternatives (e.g., EnviroKidz Amazon Flakes)
Primary Grain	Milled Corn	Milled Corn (or other gluten-free grains)
Flavoring	Contains Barley Malt Flavor (gluten)	No barley malt; uses sugar or other gluten-free flavorings
Gluten Status	NOT Gluten-Free	CERTIFIED Gluten-Free
Cross-Contamination	High risk due to shared manufacturing lines	Minimal to no risk due to dedicated facilities
Celiac Safe	NO	YES, when certified
Availability	Widely available in most grocery stores	Available in natural food sections, health food stores, or online

Conclusion

In summary, the original Kellogg's Frosted Flakes are not a safe option for those on a gluten-free diet due to the inclusion of barley malt flavoring. For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it is essential to read labels carefully and choose certified gluten-free alternatives to prevent adverse health reactions. Luckily, the market offers a growing number of delicious and safe alternatives that provide the classic frosted flakes experience without the gluten. Always prioritize products clearly marked with a gluten-free certification to ensure peace of mind and safety. For more information on gluten-free living, consulting authoritative sources like the Coeliac UK is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kellogg's Frosted Flakes contain barley malt extract, a flavoring derived from barley, which contains gluten. This ingredient, even in small amounts, makes the product unsuitable for a gluten-free diet.

Barley malt is a flavoring agent made from barley, a grain that naturally contains gluten. For people with celiac disease, consuming any amount of gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the small intestine.

No, individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity should also avoid Frosted Flakes. The symptoms triggered by gluten, while not autoimmune, can still be severe and are caused by the same ingredients.

Yes, Kellogg's offers specific products in some markets, like the Kellogg's Corn Flakes Gluten Free or certain specialty cereals. However, you must always check for the certified gluten-free label on the packaging, as their standard product lines often contain gluten.

Look for certified gluten-free corn flake cereals from brands like EnviroKidz or store brands like Simple Truth Organic. Also, many Chex cereals and other crispy rice options are labeled gluten-free.

To ensure a cereal is truly gluten-free, always check for a 'Certified Gluten-Free' label from a trusted organization. This guarantees the product meets the 20 ppm or less standard and is safe from cross-contamination.

Cereals that are not certified gluten-free but are made with naturally gluten-free grains carry a high risk of cross-contamination. They may be processed on the same equipment as gluten-containing products, making them unsafe for sensitive individuals.

No, product formulations and labeling can vary by country. For example, some regions like Australia may have specific gluten-free lines from Kellogg's, while the US market relies on checking individual product labels. Always verify the status for your specific location.