Is Falafel Gluten Free?

Falafel
Check the Label
Most falafel is gluten free, but some brands add flour or contain gluten in coatings.
Falafel is made from chickpeas and spices, traditionally fried without flour. Most is safe, but some brands add wheat flour or use gluten-based coatings.

Coeliac Disease

Check the label or ask the seller. Most falafel is safe, but some brands add flour.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Safe if verified GF or made with chickpea flour only.

Why Does Falafel Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Traditional falafel uses chickpea flour or none. Some brands add wheat flour as filler or use wheat breading in the coating.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ requires checking. Most falafel is safe if not floured.

United States (FDA)

FDA allows falafel, but check for flour additions.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g (cooked)
Energy1335 kJ / 319 kcal
Protein13.3g
Fat, total17.8g
Saturated fat2.4g
Carbohydrate31.8g
Sugars0.0g
Dietary fibre0.0g
Sodium294mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

What to Watch For

Wheat flour, coatings, binders, additives.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Fresh falafel (verify ingredients), homemade falafel, chickpea patties.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Falafel gluten free?

Falafel is made from chickpeas and spices, traditionally fried without flour. Most is safe, but some brands add wheat flour or use gluten-based coatings.

Can coeliacs eat falafel?

Check the label or ask the seller. Most falafel is safe, but some brands add flour.

Related Foods in Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh Fruit Fresh Vegetables Frozen Vegetables (Plain) Frozen Vegetables (with Sauce) Dried Fruit Canned Fruit Canned Vegetables Pickles

More from RefDat

Looking for kitchen gear that handles gluten-free cooking? See RefDat's Australian reviews of blenders for coeliac-friendly options. Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ, falafel recipes, restaurant sourcing

Last reviewed: May 2026