By Lucy Yanckello, Ph.D.
Bread is a staple in many diets worldwide. Traditionally made from wheat-flour, this puts bread off limits for those with wheat allergies and wheat intolerances. Whether allergic or mildly sensitive, avoiding wheat does not mean you have to give up on bread. The growing awareness of dietary restrictions has spurred innovation, creating delicious wheat-free breads made from alternative grains.
What is the difference between wheat allergy vs. wheat intolerance?
With wheat allergy, a person's immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in wheat as harmful. This causes allergic symptoms ranging from mild (e.g. hives, itching) to severe (e.g. anaphylaxis). Management requires strict avoidance of wheat, and those with a wheat allergy need to carry emergency medication such as an Epi-Pen for accidental exposure.
On the other hand, wheat intolerance does not involve the immune system. Wheat intolerance causes gastrointestinal discomfort, which might be due to the body not being able to properly digest certain components of wheat. Symptoms typically are much less severe than an allergic reaction and include bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Management includes dietary modifications to reduce or eliminate wheat intake.
What kind of bread doesn’t have wheat?
Bread that does not contain wheat is made from alternative grains such as oat flour, millet flour, and other bread labeled ‘gluten-free’ that are made with a mixture of alternative grains. Gluten-free breads are crafted with flours made from rice, corn, almond, and other gluten-free sources. For individuals with a wheat allergy or wheat intolerance it is essential to avoid wheat as to not have an allergic reaction, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms.
What bread can I eat with a wheat allergy? Is there any bread I can eat if I’m allergic to wheat?
When making a bread selection with a wheat allergy, it is always important to read the ingredient label carefully. Be sure there are no wheat or wheat-derived components. It is also important to be aware of the potential of cross-contamination during processing. Products labeled ‘gluten-free’ or ‘wheat-free’ can help to provide an extra layer of assurance.
There is bread that does not contain wheat that those with a wheat allergy can consume. This bread is made from alternative grains such as oat, millet, rice, corn, almond, and other gluten-free sources.
What bread can I eat with a wheat intolerance?
Similar to a wheat allergy, it is best to avoid wheat altogether so as to not cause adverse reactions. Breads made from alternative grains such as oat, millet, rice, corn, almond, and other gluten-free sources are great options for those with a wheat intolerance. Be sure to read ingredient labels to avoid wheat and cross-contamination with wheat.
What is the best flour for wheat allergy? Which flour has no wheat?
The best flour for a wheat allergy is one with no wheat. There are lots of options for this, including oat, rice, corn, almond, coconut, and chickpea. Although there are many options, it is important to note that when substituting these flours for wheat flour in a recipe, properties affecting texture and moisture will all be different. Due to this fact, combining multiple gluten-free flours often yields better results.
Is sourdough bread ok for wheat allergy? Can sourdough be wheat-free?
Sourdough bread is typically made from wheat flour, so it is not suitable to eat for those with a wheat allergy. Due to the fermentation process in sourdough bread, there may be reduced gluten content, but this does not eliminate the wheat proteins that cause allergic reactions in those with a wheat allergy. Sourdough can be made wheat free by substituting wheat flour with wheat-free alternatives, such as with Wildgrain’s gluten-free sourdough loaf.
Can I eat rye bread if I’m allergic to wheat? Is all rye bread wheat-free?
Traditionally, rye bread is made with both rye flour and wheat flour. As such, if you are allergic to wheat you should avoid rye-bread unless it is labeled ‘gluten-free’ or ‘wheat-free’. When you are selecting or preparing rye bread options, be sure to carefully read the ingredient label.
Is pumpernickel bread wheat-free? Can I eat pumpernickel bread if I have a wheat allergy?
Pumpernickel bread is typically made from rye flour, however, to improve texture and rise many modern recipes include wheat flour. It is vital to read the ingredients when searching for pumpernickel bread to be sure there is no wheat. It is also crucial to be sure there is no cross-contamination with wheat.
Does white bread contain wheat? Can you eat white bread if you have a wheat allergy?
White bread is primarily made from refined wheat flour, which means the bran and germ are removed, giving the bread a lighter texture and color. Consuming white bread with a wheat allergy is not recommended as it can trigger an allergic reaction. Stick to alternative flour options and be sure to always read the ingredient labels to avoid wheat.
What bread is best for wheat intolerance? Which bread is best for wheat allergy?
The best bread for a wheat intolerance or wheat allergy is one that does not contain wheat that you enjoy eating. Alternative bread options include those made from millet flour, oat flour, or other gluten-free flour blends. In order to be fully sure there is no wheat in a product, read the ingredient label carefully and look for products labeled ‘gluten-free’ or ‘wheat-free’ for an extra layer of security. There are also great wheat-free ship-to-your-door options from companies such as Wildgrain including Gluten-Free Sourdough Loaf, Gluten-Free Country Loaf, and Gluten-Free Slow-Fermented Seeded Loaf.
Where can I buy the best wheat-free breads online?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, rolls, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular wheat-free breads include Gluten-Free Sourdough Loaf, Gluten-Free Country Loaf, and Gluten-Free Slow-Fermented Seeded Loaf. We are proud to offer healthy breads, made with non-GMO flour and without added sugar or preservatives. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.
About the Author
Lucy Yanckello received her Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. She currently works as a medical writer and enjoys being able to help people better understand nutrition and science.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
