Wheat Straw Dishes

[SophiesMom]

I have been looking for new dishes. I was surprised to find dishes made of wheat straw. Are these safe for us? I'm very careful to avoid products that may contain gluten. I never thought I might have to check for wheat in dishes.

[Scott Adams]

Great question! Wheat straw dishes are typically made from the stalks of wheat plants (which are naturally gluten-free) combined with a binding resin. While the straw itself shouldn’t contain gluten, the safety depends on how the product is processed. Some manufacturers may use wheat-based binders or process the straw in facilities that handle gluten, creating cross-contact risks. To be safe, I’d recommend reaching out to the company directly to ask: 1) If their wheat straw material is tested to confirm it’s free of gluten proteins, and 2) Whether the production line avoids cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients. Many brands now cater to gluten-free consumers and will provide detailed answers. If you’re uncomfortable with the uncertainty, alternatives like bamboo, ceramic, or glass dishes are inherently gluten-free and worry-free. Always better to double-check—your diligence is totally justified!

[Scott Adams]

PS - To be on the safe side, I would still avoid these products. BTW, there is also a long running debate about whether strawberries are contaminated with gluten when wheat straw is used under the plants, which is a common farming practice for a variety of reasons.

[SophiesMom]

42 minutes ago, Scott Adams said:

PS - To be on the safe side, I would still avoid these products. BTW, there is also a long running debate about whether strawberries are contaminated with gluten when wheat straw is used under the plants, which is a common farming practice for a variety of reasons.

I had already decided I won't buy wheat straw dishes. I'm concerned about eating at someone else's home, or possibly restaurants. I'm very careful to avoid wheat/gluten. My cat doesn't eat cat food with wheat or wheat gluten. I've been told that wheat grass is safe, but if I can avoid it why take a chance. The cat grass sold in "catnip" grow it yourself kits is wheat grass. Your cat will be happier with dried catnip, or catnip you grow from seeds.

Strawberries: If I wash them in water will they be safe? Or should I use something more than water? I buy frozen strawberries; does freezing affect the possible gluten? Thank you for the info.

[Scott Adams]

Washing strawberries in water, which you should always do anyway due to pesticides that may be on them, should make them safe.