Udon Noodles vs Rice:
Which Is Gluten-Free?
Two Asian-restaurant staples with opposite answers. Udon noodles are made from wheat, while plain steamed rice is naturally gluten-free.
Rice is the safer celiac choice — Rice is gluten-free, while Udon Noodles contains gluten.
Verdicts last reviewed July 2026 · based on FDA gluten-free labeling rules and Celiac Disease Foundation guidance
Rice is the safer celiac choice — Rice is gluten-free, while Udon Noodles contains gluten.
Udon Noodles
No. Udon are thick wheat-flour noodles, so udon contains gluten and is not safe for celiacs.
Watch out for:
- Thick wheat-flour noodle
- Broth often uses soy sauce (wheat)
- Tempura toppings add more gluten
Rice
Yes, all plain rice is naturally gluten-free — white, brown, wild, basmati, jasmine, and sticky rice are all safe for celiacs.
Watch out for:
- Flavored rice mixes may contain wheat/soy sauce
- Restaurant rice cooked in shared water
- Rice pilaf often contains orzo (wheat pasta)
Gluten-free swaps
Instead of Udon Noodles:
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