About Malt
Malt is a cereal grain product that is commonly derived from barley and is frequently used in various food and beverage applications.
Malt is a cereal grain that is processed through a method known as malting, which involves soaking the grain in water, allowing it to germinate, and then drying it to stop the germination process. This process develops enzymes that contribute to the flavor, sweetness, and color of malt-based products. While malt can be derived from gluten-free grains like rice or corn, it is typically made from barley, a gluten-containing grain. Malt is widely used in brewing, baking, and in the production of malt vinegar and malted milk.
Other names on labels
- Malt extract
- Malt syrup
- Malt vinegar
- Malt flavoring
- Malted milk
Commonly found in
- Beer
- Malted milkshakes
- Malt vinegar chips
- Breakfast cereals
- Baked goods
Why people avoid it
People on a gluten-free diet avoid malt because it is usually made from barley, which contains gluten. Gluten is a protein that can cause health issues for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Unless a food product explicitly states that it is made from a gluten-free source like rice or corn, or carries a gluten-free label, it is generally considered unsafe for those avoiding gluten.
Common questions
Is malt gluten-free?
Typically, malt is not gluten-free as it is usually made from barley, a gluten-containing grain. However, malt made from gluten-free grains like rice or corn is safe for those avoiding gluten.
What are common uses for malt?
Malt is commonly used in brewing beer, making malt vinegar, flavoring milkshakes, and as an ingredient in baked goods and breakfast cereals.
Can I consume malt if I have celiac disease?
Unless malt is specifically labeled as gluten-free or made from a gluten-free grain like rice or corn, it is best avoided if you have celiac disease.
About this information
The diet note and ingredient information come from Spoonful’s dietitian-reviewed ingredient library. The note above is for Gluten-free; the overview and FAQs provide additional ingredient information.
An ingredient guide does not assess every ingredient in a finished product. Check the current package and your individual dietary needs.
Our sources, note attribution and corrections processFurther reading
Official resources for understanding this diet and food labels.
