Is 90 Second Barley & Lentils Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When evaluating a product for gluten safety, we have to look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the ingredient label. For the 90 Second Barley & Lentils, the ingredient list is relatively short: WATER, ORGANIC PRECOOKED GREEN LENTILS, ORGANIC PRECOOKED BARLEY, ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, and SEA SALT.

The primary culprit here is ORGANIC PRECOOKED BARLEY. As a food scientist, I can tell you that barley is one of the three primary gluten-containing grains (along with wheat and rye). It contains specific proteins called hordeins, which trigger an immune response in individuals with celiac disease. Even though the barley is organic and precooked, the gluten structure remains intact. It does not become gluten-free through processing.

It is also important to note that while ORGANIC PRECOOKED GREEN LENTILS are naturally gluten-free, they are processed in a facility that also handles the barley. However, the main issue is that barley is an intentional ingredient. You are not just dealing with potential cross-contamination; you are eating a bowl full of gluten grains.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this product offers a solid balance of macronutrients. The combination of lentils and barley creates a complete protein profile, which is excellent for muscle repair and satiety. The inclusion of ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins found in the other ingredients.

Because it relies on whole grains and legumes rather than refined flours, the glycemic index is relatively moderate. This means it provides sustained energy rather than a sugar crash. However, for those strictly monitoring sodium, the SEA SALT adds a small amount, though typically not enough to be a major concern in a single serving. It is a nutrient-dense option, provided you can tolerate the gluten.