Glass Noodle
Also known as: cellophane noodle
Glass noodles are a refined-starch food: high in rapidly digestible carbohydrate and very low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are safe but contribute mainly empty calories; some imported brands have been recalled for undeclared sulfites or aluminum-containing alum used as a firming agent.
What it is
Translucent noodles made primarily from mung-bean, sweet-potato, or pea starch and water; also called cellophane or bean-thread noodles.
Carbohydrate base for soups, stir-fries, and salads.
Why it's flagged
- high glycemic load
- low micronutrient density
- occasional alum/sulfite adulteration in imports
What regulators actually say
"Noodles, Chinese, cellophane or long rice (mung beans), dehydrated"
"Added sugars, dietary fiber, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium are required on the Nutrition Facts label."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted food; subject to 21 CFR 101 labeling and FALCPA allergen rules.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted food; subject to EU Regulation 1169/2011 labeling.
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