No, cornflour is naturally gluten-free.
Cornflour, also known as corn starch in some regions, is made from finely milled corn. In its pure form, it does not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Therefore, it's a suitable alternative for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
However, it's crucial to purchase cornflour that is specifically labeled as "gluten-free." This is because cross-contamination can occur during manufacturing, processing, or packaging if the cornflour comes into contact with gluten-containing grains.
Here's a breakdown:
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Cornflour, when made solely from corn, is free from gluten.
- Cross-Contamination Risk: Manufacturing processes can introduce gluten. Look for a "gluten-free" label.
- Cornmeal vs. Cornflour: Cornmeal, another corn-based product, is also naturally gluten-free.
Therefore, while cornflour is inherently gluten-free, always check the packaging to ensure it hasn't been cross-contaminated with gluten during production.