Is it ok for gluten intolerant people to eat einkorn? | EatWeirdThings.com

Is it ok for gluten intolerant people to eat einkorn?

Quick Answer

No

Einkorn is an ancient variety of wheat and it does contain gluten. Therefore, it is not safe for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease to consume.

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What Is It?

Einkorn is one of the earliest forms of cultivated wheat, dating back about 10,000 years. Despite being a wheat variety, its genetic composition is different from modern wheat, which makes it easier to digest for some people. However, it still contains gluten.

Historical Context

Einkorn was one of the first crops domesticated in the Fertile Crescent. It was widely cultivated during the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age but became less common in the Bronze Age. Today, it is considered a ‘relic crop’ and is grown in a few regions of Europe and Asia.

Why It Can Be Risky

While einkorn is often touted as a healthier alternative to modern wheat due to its lower gluten content and higher nutritional value, it still poses risks for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

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Safe Alternatives

For those with gluten intolerance, alternatives to einkorn and other wheat varieties include grains and seeds like quinoa, rice, corn, amaranth, and buckwheat.