Are All Types of Rice Gluten-Free?

It's not uncommon to associate gluten with all types of carby foods, including rice. But if you're following a gluten-free diet, you'll be relieved to learn that rice is naturally gluten-free.

Assuming your rice isn't prepared with any wheat, rye or barley-based ingredients, you can feel free to add this grain to any dish. But before you buy just any rice product, double-check the packaging for the appropriate labels.

Served plain or in its natural form, rice is a gluten-free grain and safe to eat, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation. And that goes for all rice types, such as brown or basmati.

Available in a variety of colors and forms, whole-grain and brown rice are excellent sources of fiber, a nutrient that helps regulate digestion and keep you feeling full. Rice is also one of the most easily digested grains, which makes it an excellent option for those following a gluten-free diet, according to the Whole Grains Council.

Plain and simple rice from the grocery store is safe to eat but that doesn't mean all rice products or dishes get the green light. As with all processed or prepared foods, you'll always want to be cautious of potential cross-contamination.

Cross-contamination happens when foods touch or come in contact with gluten ingredients either through preparation or manufacturing, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation.

Rice stored in the same container or area as a gluten-containing grain, for instance, can be contaminated, becoming unsafe for those who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

You can prevent and avoid gluten cross-contamination by checking the packaging and reading the nutrition label on rice-based foods. Rice cakes, rice cereal and rice crispy treats are all made with rice but they may not necessarily be gluten-free.

First, check the ingredient label and allergen listing for any wheat, rye or barley. Then, look for a "gluten-free" label on the front of the package. This label is regulated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and signifies that the food you're eating has less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is generally safe for people with celiac and gluten sensitivity.

If you want even higher standards, buy foods that are certified gluten-free by trusted third parties, such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). The GFCO has especially strict standards, certifying foods that have only 10 ppm of gluten or less, according to the organization's website.

These brands offer different kinds of gluten-free rice that are safe to serve with your favorite chicken or veggie dish.

Most of RiceSelect's plain rice products are gluten-free and certified by the GFCO.

Lundberg's brown rice (along with many other rice products) is certified gluten-free.

Rani's basmati rice is free of gluten and is vegan and non-GMO.

Unlike white rice, this gluten-free jasmine rice has a fluffy texture and floral aroma.

With no additives or other ingredients, ONETANG's black rice is free of wheat, rye or barley.

With its buttery aroma, red rice is the perfect way to upgrade simple dishes.

Sprouted rice is gluten-free and offers a chewier texture than other alternatives.

When you cook plain sushi rice at home, it's usually free of any gluten. But in a sushi restaurant, you'll want to be conscious of potential cross-contamination.

If you're craving a rice-based snack, try these gluten-free options from trusted brands.

These puffed brown rice snacks are subtly sweet.

Good Thins are a delicious, gluten-free alternative to crackers.

For a light dessert that doesn't taste too sweet, try Drizzilicious' line of mini rice cakes.

Wake up to a bowl of this rice cereal or enjoy it as a nightcap.