Wheat Allergen Guide
Information about Wheat in cuisine around the world.
About Wheat
Wheat is common in noodles, tempura batter, and soy sauce.
High Prevalence Warning
Wheat is particularly common in the cuisine of: Japan, Italy, France, Egypt, Spain, Germany, Morocco, Turkey, United States, Brazil, China, India, Portugal, Lebanon, Russia, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, Jordan
Common Foods Containing Wheat
Foods That Contain Wheat

Ramen
Chinese-style wheat noodles served in meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso, topped with ingredients such as sliced pork, nori, and green onions. Regional varieties include Tokyo shoyu, Hokkaido miso, Kyushu tonkotsu, and Sapporo butter corn ramen. The world's first Michelin Green Star for ramen awarded in 2025.
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Tempura
Seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep-fried. The batter is light and crispy, made with cold water and minimal mixing. Liquid nitrogen tempura pioneered by Tempura Motoyoshi represents 2025's innovative frontier.
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Okonomiyaki
Savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, meat, and seafood, topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. Osaka and Hiroshima styles differ in preparation methods.
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Tonkatsu
Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet served with shredded cabbage, rice, and tonkatsu sauce (sweet-savory blend of fruits, vegetables, and spices). The premium version uses kurobuta (Berkshire black pork) with exceptional marbling. Invented in Tokyo in 1899, tonkatsu represents Japan's Meiji-era Western cuisine adaptation.
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Udon
Thick, chewy wheat flour noodles served hot in dashi-based broth or cold with dipping sauce (tsuyu). Regional variations abound: Sanuki udon (Kagawa) is firm and square-cut, Hakata udon (Fukuoka) is soft, Inaniwa udon (Akita) is thin and elegant. Toppings range from simple green onions to tempura shrimp, beef, or curry.
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Pizza Napoletana
Traditional Neapolitan pizza with a soft, thin base topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and olive oil. UNESCO-protected tradition since 2017.
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Tips for Avoiding Wheat
Learn Local Terms
Before traveling, learn how to say "Wheat allergy" in the local language.
Carry Allergy Card
Carry a card in the local language explaining your allergy to show at restaurants.
Research Typical Dishes
Research common dishes in your destination to identify those that typically contain Wheat.
Pack Emergency Medication
Always carry any necessary allergy medication, including antihistamines or an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.