15 Surprising Foods That Have Gluten in Them

Although bread and pasta are often the first foods that come to mind for most people when gluten is mentioned, it can also be present in many other foods. Whether you have celiac disease, a gluten intolerance, or are simply following a gluten-free diet, being aware of these hidden sources is crucial.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce
Photo Credit: Canva

Soy sauce is a staple in many Asian dishes and a versatile condiment that uniquely flavors meals. Traditional soy sauce contains wheat, which can be problematic for individuals with gluten sensitivities or allergies. Tamari sauce is a great gluten-free alternative.

Salad Dressings

Salad dressing
Photo Credit: Canva

Some dressings contain gluten, especially those with added flavorings or thickeners. To be safe, check the label and opt for dressings labeled as “gluten-free. ” Alternatively, you can make your dressing using simple ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.

Beer

taking beer from a fridge
Photo Credit: Canva

Most beers are brewed with barley, a gluten-containing grain, making them unsafe for people following a gluten-free diet. However, gluten-free beers are made with alternative grains such as rice, millet, sorghum, or corn. Read labels carefully to ensure gluten-free options.

Processed Meats

processed meat
Photo Credit: Canva

Sausages and hot dogs often contain gluten as a filler or binding agent. Gluten can be hidden in the seasonings, marinades, or preservatives used in processed meats. Seek out certified gluten-free meats or opt for natural, unprocessed cuts to avoid accidental ingestion of gluten.

Soups

Miso soup
Photo Credit: Canva

The thick and creamy texture of many commercial soups is often achieved using flour, a common gluten-containing ingredient. Soups, mainly canned or premade varieties, may also use wheat-based broths or stocks. For homemade soup options, employ thickening alternatives like cornstarch, arrowroot, or pureed vegetables to ensure they fit within a gluten-free diet.

French Fries

Large fries
Photo Credit: Canva

Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, but how they’re prepared can introduce gluten into this otherwise safe food. Many fast-food chains use a flour-based coating on their fries for a crispy exterior. Opt for fries from dedicated fryers, or make yours at home using fresh potatoes and oil.

Ice Cream

ice cream scoop
Photo Credit: Canva

Ice cream can be tricky for people avoiding gluten, as it often contains additives or flavorings that may contain gluten. Stick to brands that explicitly state they are “gluten-free” and avoid flavors like cookies and cream, which typically have gluten-containing ingredients.

Seasoning Mixes

Seasonings
Photo Credit: Canva

Pre-packaged seasoning mixes often contain flour as an anti-caking agent or thickener. These mixes are present in foods from taco seasoning to gravy mixes. To avoid gluten, make your spice blends at home using individual herbs and spices, or look for certified gluten-free options.

Soy Milk

soy milk
Photo Credit: Canva

Soy milk is a popular dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk, but some brands may contain gluten. Gluten content can be due to cross-contamination during processing or adding gluten-containing ingredients like barley malt as a sweetener.

Licorice Candy

Licorice Candies
Photo Credit: Canva

Licorice candy is typically made with wheat flour, making it off-limits for people following a gluten-free diet. Even “black licorice” flavorings in other candies or foods may contain traces of gluten. Make your homemade versions using alternative flours.

Veggie Burgers

Veggie Burger
Photo Credit: Canva

Often seen as a healthier alternative to traditional meat burgers, veggie burgers can also contain gluten because many use wheat-based fillers or binders to hold the patties together. Look for options from beans, lentils, quinoa, or other alternative grains.

Jelly Beans

jelly beans
Photo Credit: Canva

Not all jelly beans are gluten-free. Some varieties of jelly beans can contain a surprising amount of gluten, derived from wheat-based starches or glucose syrup sourced from wheat used in the candy-making process.

Potato Chips

Ketchup and Potato Chips
Photo Credit: Canva

Although primarily made from gluten-free potatoes, potato chips can still contain gluten due to certain flavorings and additives. There is also a risk of cross-contamination if the chips are processed on equipment used for gluten-containing products. Some chip varieties may use wheat starch or other gluten-based ingredients in their flavorings, making them potential sources of gluten.

Communion Wafers

communion wafers
Photo Credit: Canva

Even a tiny amount of gluten can cause a reaction in individuals with celiac disease. An example is the small wafers used in religious communion services. Many churches now offer gluten-free options for people who need them, so ask beforehand.

Miso Paste

Miso paste
Photo Credit: Canva

Miso paste is a staple used to add deep umami flavors to dishes. Despite being made primarily from fermented soybeans, some miso pastes include grains like barley, a gluten source. Choose miso pastes made solely from soybeans or other gluten-free grains like rice for a gluten-free diet.

More From Health Makes You

woman with stomach pain
Photo Credit: Canva

Eating is essential to your survival, but many food items can cause serious harm and put you at risk of death if ingested in large quantities or not prepared properly. Some of them are common foods you consume every day.

30 Dangerous Foods You Didn’t Know Could Kill You

16 Foods Boomers Love That Millennials Won’t Touch

disatisfied woman gesturing with thumbs down
Photo Credit: Canva

The generation gap between Baby Boomers and Millennials can be seen in many aspects of life, from how they dress and listen to music to how they shop and eat. Here’s a look at some dishes Boomers love, but Millennials won’t touch.

16 Foods Boomers Love That Millennials Won’t Touch

The Top 25 Most Popular Foods in America You Must Try Once in Your Life

crab cakes
Photo Credit: Canva

America is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects that. From coast to coast, you can find all sorts of unique dishes that are delicious and nutritious. Here’s a list of the top 25 most popular foods in America that you must try at least once in your life!

The Top 25 Most Popular Foods in America You Must Try Once in Your Life

15 Foods Americans Eat That Foreigners Find Disgusting

Mayonnaise Salads
Photo Credit: Canva

Americans have various culinary preferences, and some foods popular in the United States may seem strange or even disgusting to foreigners. Here are some foods Americans eat that foreigners find most disgusting.

15 Foods Americans Eat That Foreigners Find Disgusting

10 Foods to Never Eat for Breakfast

Cinnamon toast
Photo Credit: Canva

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day as it sets the tone for your energy levels and how you function throughout the day. While some foods provide the necessary fuel to conquer the day, others derail your diet plans and leave you sluggish. Here’s a list of common foods to avoid to start your day right.

10 Foods to Never Eat for Breakfast

This article was produced on Health Makes You.

Yvonne Alieme

Yvonne Alieme is a passionate writer dedicated to reviving society's reading culture. She strives to inspire and educate others through her work, and her commitment to promoting literacy and knowledge-sharing makes her a valuable contributor to the community.

Recent Posts