Gluten free dried pasta often cops a reputation for being mushy and flavourless. But brands have lifted their game as competition hots up in Australia. We tested six gluten free spiral pastas sold in the Coles, Woolworths, or Aldi.

Yes, flavour counted, but we also stacked them up against price, nutrition, Coeliac Australia endorsement and how Aussie they really are. The results show clear winners which may surprise you.

1. Pasta Roma Gluten Free Spirals 350g

Pasta Roma Gluten Free Spirals was a clear winner. While it wasn’t our favourite tasting pasta, it dominated the sourcing criteria with perfect scores for Australian made and owned. It was the only one to score points for using local ingredients.

The other products in this test use a lot more corn flour, while Roma uses more rice flour. We think this factor let it down a little on flavour and gave it an overly white appearance. But it was still enjoyable.

2. San Remo Gluten Free Spirals 350g

San Remo Gluten Free Spirals was a close second in this test, getting the highest points for taste and texture. It is Coeliac Australia Endorsed and Australian owned.

Although San Remo is an Aussie company, it’s gluten free product is made in Italy. This cost it vital points for being locally made and its local ingredient usage was nada.

We noted that the San Remo pasta cooked quicker than the others. They use more starches rather than flours, which we’re guessing is the reason.

3. Coles I’m Free From Spirals Pasta 500g

Like Woolworths, this brand was rated a perfect 10 for value. It also received the highest score for nutrition (4/5 Health Stars) and is Aus owned. Based on flavour alone, this product was second only to San Remo.

Check out the Coles I’m Free From Spiral Pasta Review here.

4. Woolworths Free From Gluten Spirals 500g

Woolworths Free From Gluten Spirals are a budget-friendly option, but also scored well on taste (Texture and Flavour were 8/10).

Nothing much separates the Woolworths and Coles spirals except that the Woolies pack has a slightly lower health star rating. It also had a minor visual issue with black flecks from the rice flour.

5. Barilla Gluten Free Fusilli 340g

A good option, although a little more pricey than most. It is one of the three brands that is Coeliac Australia Endorsed, though it scored low on Australian sourcing and ownership.

Learn more about Barilla Fusilli here.

6. Aldi Remano Gluten Free Spirals 500g

Although Aldi’s Remano pasta was the bottom of the list, it’s taste is solid and it has an impressive price point.

This pasta received decent scores for flavour and texture (both 8/10), but was hampered by low scores in the Australian sourcing, ownership and Coeliac Aus endorsement.

If you just want cheap, good tasting pasta, Remano is no slouch.