The Oatly Craze: Is It Safe for Gluten-Free Diets?
Oatly has taken the world by storm with its creamy oat milk and gluten-free alternatives to traditional dairy products. But for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, the question remains – is Oatly gluten-free? In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients behind Oatly, its certifications, and what this means for those with gluten intolerance.
History and Ingredients of Oatly
Oatly, originally founded in Sweden in the 1990s, has recently become a popular alternative to traditional dairy products. Oatly’s oat milk is made from a base of gluten-free oats, water, and a small amount of rapeseed oil. It is also fortified with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutrient-rich option for those looking to switch up their diet.
Is Oatly Safe for People with Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Disease?
The short answer is yes, Oatly is safe for those with gluten intolerance. While oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, oats can become contaminated with wheat, barley, or rye during processing. However, Oatly takes extensive measures to ensure that all of their products are gluten-free, including sourcing and processing their oats in a gluten-free environment.
In addition to their in-house quality controls, Oatly also works with outside organizations to ensure that their products meet gluten-free standards. They are certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), which means that their products contain less than 10 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, the lowest level detectable by scientific instruments. They are also certified by the Vegan Society and the Non-GMO Project.
Alternative Milk Options for Those Who Cannot Consume Gluten
While Oatly is a great gluten-free option for those who cannot consume dairy, there are other alternatives available. Almond milk and coconut milk are naturally gluten-free and widely available. Soy milk is also an option but should be avoided by those with soy allergies. For those who enjoy the nutty flavor of oats, hemp milk and rice milk are other dairy-free options.
Oatly Takes the Gluten-Free World By Storm
Oatly’s popularity has grown exponentially in recent years, with more and more people turning to the brand for their gluten-free and dairy-free needs. Customers rave about the taste and texture of Oatly’s oat milk, which is often described as creamier and sweeter than other dairy-free alternatives.
According to a survey by OnePoll, 59% of Americans believe that plant-based milk is healthier than cow’s milk, and 38% of respondents said that oat milk is their favorite alternative milk. Oatly’s growth within the past few years has been so significant that they’ve had trouble keeping up with demand, with some stores even reporting empty shelves.
Customer Reviews and Opinions on Oatly’s Gluten-Free Status
Consumers with gluten intolerance have raved about Oatly’s gluten-free status, with many saying that they’ve had no adverse reactions after consuming the product. One reviewer said, “Finally, a non-dairy milk that I can enjoy without worrying about gluten contamination! I’ve tried other oat milks, but Oatly is by far the creamiest and best-tasting.”
Others have noted that Oatly has a naturally sweet taste, making it a great addition to coffee and tea. “I’ve always been a fan of cream in my coffee, but since I’ve gone dairy-free and gluten-free, I’ve struggled to find a good replacement. Oatly has solved that problem for me – it’s a little sweet and makes my coffee taste so much better!”
New Recipes That Incorporate Oatly
Oatly isn’t just a replacement for traditional milk – it can also be used in a variety of recipes. The creamy texture of Oatly makes it an ideal dairy-free option for baking, smoothies, and ice cream. Some popular recipes that incorporate Oatly include:
- Oatmeal cookies made with Oatly
- Oat milk lattes
- Vegan pumpkin pie with Oatly whipped cream
- Dairy-free ice cream made with Oatly oat milk
- Muffins made with Oatly and fresh berries
The Science Behind Oatly’s Gluten-Free Label
Oatly takes extensive measures to ensure that all of their products are gluten-free, both through in-house controls and outside certifications. Their oats are sourced from farmers who are trained to follow specific gluten-free guidelines, and their facilities are designed specifically to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing products.
Oatly works closely with the GFCO to maintain their gluten-free certification, which involves regular testing of their products to ensure that they contain less than 10 ppm of gluten. In a statement on their website, Oatly says, “We only make non-dairy beverages and products from oats so that we can be the very best at it.”
From Bowls to Beverages: Oatly’s Gluten-Free Alternatives
In addition to their gluten-free oat milk, Oatly offers a variety of other products that are safe for those with gluten intolerance. Their oat-based ice cream is dairy-free and gluten-free, as are their oat-based yogurts and cream cheese alternatives.
For those who want to incorporate more oats into their diet, Oatly also offers a selection of gluten-free oatmeal and granola. Their website features a variety of recipes that incorporate their products, including breakfast bowls, smoothies, and desserts.
Behind the Brand: Oatly’s Commitment to Gluten-Free Consumers
Oatly is committed to becoming a sustainable and gluten-free company, with a focus on minimizing their environmental impact and providing safe products for those with gluten intolerance. They use renewable energy in their production facilities and have a sustainability report available on their website.
Oatly also works closely with farmers to ensure that their oats are grown in a sustainable and gluten-free environment. In an interview with FoodNavigator, Bjorn Öste, one of Oatly’s founders, said, “We’re working with farmers in Sweden to help them shift some of their land from crops that might contain gluten to oats, which don’t.”
Conclusion
Oatly has become a popular and trusted brand for those looking to make the switch to a gluten-free and dairy-free diet. With their extensive gluten-free certifications, commitment to sustainability, and delicious products, it’s no wonder that Oatly has taken the world by storm. For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, Oatly is a safe and delicious choice that can be used in a variety of ways.
