Originally issued June 2023 by Nicole Byrom, Registered Dietitian, Updated 2026.
As alternatives to single-use plastic straws become more common, people with celiac disease may wonder whether paper and other biodegradable straws are safe to use.
The good news is that most common straws, including paper, silicone and stainless steel straws, are considered safe for people with celiac disease. However, some biodegradable or edible straws may be made from gluten-containing grains.
Paper straws: SAFE.
Ordinary paper straws are considered safe for people with celiac disease. There is no evidence that they pose a gluten risk.
Plastic straws: SAFE
Regular plastic straws do not contain gluten.
Silicone and stainless steel straws: SAFE.
These are gluten-free and reusable options.
Bamboo straws: SAFE.
Bamboo is naturally gluten-free.
Straws made from grain stalks: GENERALLY SAFE.
Gluten is found in the grain, not the stalk of the plant. Research examining wheat- and rye-stalk straws found no detectable gluten or gluten migration.
Pasta or other edible wheat-based straws: UNSAFE, AVOID.
Pasta straws made from wheat contain gluten and should be avoided by people with celiac disease.
You do not need to avoid ordinary paper straws because of celiac disease.
If you are given an unfamiliar biodegradable or edible straw and are unsure what it is made from, ask the restaurant. Avoid edible straws made from wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients unless they are identified as gluten-free.
Most straws are safe for people with celiac disease. This includes: paper, plastic, silicone, stainless steel, bamboo and stalk-based straws.
The main concern is with edible straws made from gluten-containing ingredients, such as wheat pasta or durum wheat semolina. These should be avoided unless they are specifically gluten-free.
When you’re unsure about an unfamiliar straw, ask what it is made from, or simply avoid.
References
Mossburger J, Scherf KA. Gluten migration from biodegradable food contact materials poses a risk to celiac disease patients. European Food Research and Technology. 2024;250:2711–2718.
Comino C, et al. Potential Transfer of Toxic Gluten from Biodegradable Tableware to Gluten-Free Foods: Implications for Individuals with Gluten-Related Disorders. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2025.
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