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Is Masa Flour Gluten-Free? (& GF Brands)

Last Updated on February 16, 2022

Today, we’re going to be answering the question: is masa flour gluten-free? And taking a look at the leading gluten-free brands when it comes to masa flour. You may not be familiar with masa flour, but it’s used in more everyday foods than you may think! We’ll be taking a look at what it’s made from, how to use it in cooking, and most importantly – whether or not it’s gluten-free.

What Is Masa Flour?

Masa itself is a dough from ground corn or maize. Once the flour has been dried, it’s then better known as masa flour, or masa harina flour (which is how you’ll usually see it labeled in stores). It’s a staple if you’re making Mexican food from scratch.

What Is Masa Flour Used For?

Masa flour can be used in a variety of recipes, but you’ll most often see the use of masa harina flour in the following foods:

  • corn tortillas
  • tamales
  • pupusas
  • gorditas
  • tostadas
  • tacos
  • many other Latin American dishes

gorditas

Learn more about: Are Del Taco Tacos Gluten-Free?

Is Masa Flour Gluten-Free?

You may see the word flour and instantly worry that it won’t be gluten-free. However, this is not the case with masa flour. As masa is derived from corn, it’s naturally gluten-free. Most flour is made from cereal grains, most commonly wheat, which as we know is not suitable for a gluten-free diet. But masa flour is safe for a gluten-free lifestyle, as corn is naturally gluten-free.

Benefits Of Masa

There are many benefits to incorporating masa into your diet. Some of these benefits include:

  • Can help lower high cholesterol and help to decrease the risk of heart disease – this is because it’s high in niacin
  • It helps to build strong teeth and bones – this is because it contains calcium
  • High in magnesium and fiber – helping to maintain a healthy, balanced diet
  • It’s gluten-free! This is the main benefit for us, as we’ll be looking after our guts, whilst eating delicious food

Gluten-Free Masa Flour Brands

There’s a range of masa flour to buy in stores, but it’s always best to buy gluten-free brands if possible, and all of the following brands are safe to consume when following a gluten-free lifestyle.

Bob’s Red Mill

Bob’s Red Mill is one of the best places to shop for gluten-free staples, such as flour. They have two varieties of masa flour, their Organic Masa Harina, and Golden Masa Harina Corn Flour. You can find both versions here.

The Golden Masa Harina Corn Flour is $3.69 per bag and the only ingredients in this product are corn and lime. This particular product is also vegan and Kosher. The Organic Masa Harina is a little more expensive at just over $5 per bag and the only ingredients are organic corn and hydrated lime. This product is also non-GMO.

King Arthur

King Arthur is another popular brand which is home to a range of gluten-free products. Their Organic Masa Harina is made from finely ground white corn. This brand is slightly more expensive, at $6.95 for a 32oz bag. You can check out their range here.

Maseca

Maseca is the brand of masa flour you’ll most likely see when in your local store; this is by far the most popular brand – and you can find their Instant Yellow Corn Flour in stores such as Walmart, for as little as $2 per bag. If you’re on a budget, this is the perfect option to stock up on in your pantry.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped to answer the question: is masa flour gluten-free? And helped to identify the best gluten-free brands to try if you’re looking to buy masa flour for your pantry. The most important thing to remember is to check for any signs of cross-contact and where the flour is stocked. Gluten-free flour should always be separate from gluten-containing flour.

Finding masa flour suitable for a gluten-free diet isn’t difficult at all, and luckily for us, is one of the easiest gluten-free flours you’ll come across.

Do you know of any gluten-free masa flour brands? If so, please feel free to let me know in the comments below. Sharing is caring!

Read more about Krusteaz Gluten-Free Flour Recipes

FAQs

Is All Corn Masa Gluten Free?

Naturally, all corn masa should be gluten free. While there aren't usually any other ingredients in corn masa to mean it would be unsafe, cross contact can sometimes be an issue. Cross contact is when a non-containing gluten product comes into contact with gluten due aspects such as handling, transportation, or even harvesting methods. 

Is Premade Masa Gluten Free?

As above, premade masa should always be gluten free, as naturally, it doesn't contain gluten. But if you're unsure, be sure to always check the ingredients labels of anything you purchase. If possible, you should always opt for items that carry a gluten free label, or are certified gluten free. This means that they're tested for gluten, and would be completely safe.

Is Masa Flour the Same as Regular Flour?

No, they are not the same. One is made from gluten and the other is made from corn. However, you can substitute one for the other when baking/cooking. In terms of thickening and texture, they're very much the same, but masa flour has a very distinctive taste.

What Masa is Gluten Free?

There are a range of gluten free masa flours that you'll be able to find in your local grocery stores - in fact, they'll probably even have several options to choose from! We'll be taking a look at the most popular gluten free options in this post.

Does Maseca Have Gluten?

Maseca is a brand that offers corn masa flour and the brand is certified gluten free. However, as it's usually stored alongside flour that does contain gluten, be wary that cross contact has not taken place. It's very frustrating that gluten free flour is stored next to gluten containing flour.

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