No, chana (chickpeas) is naturally gluten-free.
Chana, also known as chickpeas or garbanzo beans, are legumes. In their natural, unprocessed form, they do not contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
However, it's important to be cautious of potential cross-contamination. Here's a breakdown:
- Raw Chana/Chickpeas: Gluten-free.
- Processed Chana Products: Products made from chana, such as chana flour or dishes like chana masala, could contain gluten if they have been processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing grains or if gluten-containing ingredients are added. Always check the label to be sure.
- Prepared Dishes (e.g., Chana Masala, Hummus, Falafel): Always check the ingredients and preparation methods, especially when eating out. These dishes can sometimes contain gluten due to added thickeners, sauces, or cross-contamination during preparation.
Therefore, while chana itself is gluten-free, be mindful of processing and preparation methods to ensure gluten avoidance if needed.
