INTRODUCTION
When you hear about oats, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? Or more appropriately, I would say, what strikes the gluten sensitive people when you hear about Oats? Are they healthy? Are oats gluten free or contaminated free? That’s the first thing that runs in our minds. Right? The reason why it’s confusing to understand this is that some of the packaged foods don’t show all the ingredients mentioned in the products. If you want to confirm whether it is gluten free, the most appropriate way to check on the product is the certified gluten free sticker.
A BRIEF DISCUSSION ON OATS
Oats are a type of cereal grain that is commonly eaten as oatmeal or used in baking. They do not contain gluten which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Oats itself, as a whole, are naturally gluten free. Also, it is one of the most popular breakfast choices for many people. This makes oats a safe option for those who need to avoid gluten in their diet. But the chances of cross contamination are high. It may occur as some wheat, rye, and barley are also processed in the same field.
WHAT IS OATMEAL?
Ok, so we all know about oats. But do you know what oatmeal is? Let’s talk about the difference between oats and oatmeal. Oats are whole grain, while oatmeal is the product that results from grinding the oats into a finer texture. Oatmeal is a popular breakfast choice and can be found in many different forms, such as instant oatmeal, steel cut oats, and rolled oats.
CONTAMINATION – THE MAJOR REASON FOR GLUTEN
Anyway, we found out that either oats or oatmeal, both are gluten free. But still, sometimes we don’t get to see certified gluten free oats. Why is that so? The answer to this is contamination. Contamination can occur in oats and oatmeal due to processing methods. Oats are often processed in facilities that also handle gluten containing grains, which can lead to cross contamination. So when your product gets contaminated, and if the gluten limit exceeds 20 ppm, then of course it can’t be certified as gluten free. In that case, those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease need to choose certified gluten free oats to avoid any potential issues.
OATS INTOLERANT
While some people are gluten sensitive, some people are oats sensitive. For this, make sure the gluten sensitive people are consuming gluten free oats. But still, if those gluten free oats are troubling you, then you might be sensitive to oats too. So for this, check through your doctor and nutritionist and then include oats in your diet.
OATMEAL- A PERFECT PORTION FOOD
Oatmeal is a complete diet which is now used by many individuals. Cooking gluten free oatmeal is the same process as you cook whole oats. Either you can make cramping hot peanut butter cookies or you can opt for gluten free oatmeal cake which is now more demanding as it’s healthy and beneficial.
To help you incorporate gluten free oats into your diet, here are 10 dishes made with oatmeal that should be gluten free:
- OATMEAL COOKIES
Oatmeal cookies can easily be made gluten free by using certified gluten free oats and gluten free flour. You can also add in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for a delicious treat. Pair your crunchy textured cookies with peanut butter or gluten free chocolate, and enjoy this delight!
- OATMEAL PANCAKES
Let’s have a gluten free twist for a classic breakfast, try making oatmeal pancakes. Simply substitute regular flour with gluten free flour and oats for a hearty and nutritious breakfast option on your table.
- OATMEAL MUFFINS
Oatmeal muffins are a great grab and go snack that can easily be made gluten free. Just use gluten free oats and flour in your favorite muffin recipe for a tasty treat. This would be perfect for your kids too.
- OATMEAL BARS
Oatmeal bars are a convenient and portable snack that can be made gluten free by using certified gluten free oats and gluten free flour. Add in nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added flavor and nutrition.
- OATMEAL SMOOTHIES
Oatmeal smoothies are a great way to add fiber and nutrients to your morning routine. Simply blend oats with your favorite fruits, vegetables, and liquids for a delicious and filling smoothie.
- OATMEAL GRANOLA
Homemade granola is a versatile and customizable snack that can easily be made gluten free by using gluten free oats and ingredients. Enjoy it on its own or sprinkle it over yogurt or smoothie bowls for added crunch.
- OATMEAL ENERGY BITES
Oatmeal energy bites are a quick and easy snack that can be made gluten free by using gluten free oats. They are perfect for a quick energy boost on the go.
- OATMEAL CRUMBLE TOPPING FOR FRUIT CRISP
Oatmeal crumble topping is a delicious and gluten free option for topping fruit crisps. Simply mix oats, gluten free flour, sugar, and butter for a crispy and flavorful topping.
- OATMEAL BREAKFAST BARS
Oatmeal breakfast bars are a convenient and nutritious option for busy mornings. Simply mix oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit with a binder like honey or nut butter for a delicious and filling breakfast.
- OATMEAL PORRIDGE
Oatmeal porridge is a classic breakfast option that can easily be made gluten free by using certified gluten free oats. Top it with your favorite fruits, nuts, and seeds for a hearty and satisfying meal.
When cooking these dishes, be sure to use certified gluten free oats. Also, be very peculiar while adding other ingredients in it. Make sure that the ingredients you use to make them are all gluten free. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of oats without compromising your health.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, while oats are naturally gluten free, it is important to be mindful of potential contamination and take precautions to ensure that the oats you are consuming are safe for your diet. By choosing certified gluten free oats and following proper cooking practices, you can enjoy the many benefits of oats without any worries. Remember, your health is important, so always take care of what you put into your body.
