When it comes to gluten-free diets, one question we often hear is: “Why aren’t oats allowed to be labeled as gluten-free in Australia?” At Weigh 'n Pay, we sell oats sourced from a local farm in Toodyay, tested and certified to contain 0ppm gluten—but the regulatory landscape around oats can be confusing. Here’s a breakdown of the issue and how we ensure the oats we offer are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Oats and Gluten: The Basics
Oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, meaning they don’t contain the wheat, barley, or rye proteins that trigger reactions in those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. However, due to the way oats are processed, they often become contaminated with gluten during cultivation, harvesting, transportation, or processing. This cross-contamination makes it difficult for oats to be labeled as gluten-free in Australia, as strict regulations are in place to protect those with severe gluten sensitivities.
The Role of Avenin: A “Cousin” to Gluten
While oats do not contain gluten, they do contain a protein called Avenin, which is structurally similar to gluten. In fact, avenin is often referred to as a "cousin" to gluten because, in some individuals, it can trigger symptoms similar to gluten intolerance or coeliac disease. Avenin can affect some people with gluten sensitivities, even though it is not technically gluten. For this reason, oats are not universally safe for all individuals with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, which is why strict testing and certification are essential to ensure safety.
Why Aren’t Oats Labeled Gluten-Free in Australia?
In Australia, the Food Standards Code dictates that products can only be labeled "gluten-free" if they contain less than 20ppm (parts per million) of gluten. Oats grown on fields that also harvest gluten-containing grains are at risk of cross-contamination, even in small amounts, making it challenging to meet the strict testing standards. This is why, despite oats being naturally gluten-free, they cannot be legally labeled as gluten-free unless they are produced in dedicated facilities and undergo rigorous testing to confirm their gluten content is below the threshold.
Our Gluten-Tested Oats from Toodyay
At Weigh 'n Pay, we proudly offer oats sourced from a local farm in Toodyay. These oats are carefully tested and certified to contain 0ppm gluten, meaning they are safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or coeliac disease. The oats are grown and processed in dedicated environments where cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains is strictly prevented, ensuring a product that meets the highest standards of gluten safety.
What Does 0ppm Gluten Mean?
When we say our oats contain 0ppm gluten, it means that there is absolutely no detectable gluten present in the oats, ensuring they are safe for consumption by those with gluten intolerances. The oats undergo comprehensive testing, and the certification confirms that they meet the strictest gluten-free criteria.
Take the “Oat Challenge” with Coeliac Australia
If you are unsure whether oats will affect you or you have concerns about how your body responds to avenin, Coeliac Australia recommends the “Oat Challenge”. This is a medically supervised process that allows individuals with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance to test their tolerance to oats in a controlled way. The challenge involves gradually introducing certified gluten-free oats into your diet and monitoring for any symptoms.
Before starting the Oat Challenge, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional, as they can guide you through the process safely. The challenge can provide you with valuable information on whether oats are suitable for you, based on your individual tolerance.
The Bottom Line
While oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, the risk of contamination during processing means they can't be labeled "gluten-free" in Australia unless they meet the strict standards. At Weigh 'n Pay, we make sure our locally sourced oats from Toodyay are rigorously tested to provide you with a product that is safe and suitable for your dietary needs.
If you’re looking for high-quality, safe oats for baking, smoothies, or other gluten-free recipes, look no further! Our oats are not only delicious and locally sourced, but also tested and certified to contain 0ppm gluten, making them the perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Of course we also have regular Rolled Oats sourced from Wagin, for those that are not concerned about Gluten or Cross Contamination!
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