Hidden Sources of Gluten in Ready-made Products

Information regarding hidden sources of gluten in off-the-shelf products provided by Nutrition-Essentials™

Watch for these hidden source of gluten and possible cross-contamination issues:

Dried/Dehydrated Foods/Spices

Sauces, gravy mixes, spices, spice blends/rubs, dried/dehydrated foods, instant rice, potato and pasta dishes. These are often made with or contain wheat and wheat starch to help thicken or prevent clumping in products. Natural and artificial flavors, extracts and additives are always possible sources of hidden gluten.

Remember: If you can’t read it – Don’t eat it!

BETTER CHOICE: Make your own blends or buy from dedicated gluten-free sources!

Ready to Eat Foods

Ice cream, yogurt, some cheese, condiments, sauces, rice paper, frozen French fries/potato/hasbrowns, and canned soups.

BETTER CHOICE: Buy from dedicated gluten-free sources or make fresh at home!

Cereals, Grains and Candy

The safest choice is to buy these items from dedicated sources, health food stores and online resources that cater to the Gluten-free and Allergen-Free communities.

Also the Celiac Sprue Association and others have product information guides available.

The Good News: Rice Checks by General Mills is now Gluten-Free! Snickers and other candy/candy barsare also Gluten-Free. Check labels, product guides, online resources or call the manufactures directly.

Milk substitutes and beverages

Milk replacers (rice, almond and/or soy), cocoa mixes, coffee substitutes, some herbal teas, sodas, juice, beer, and alcohol are all possible sources of wheat and gluten. Some companies use barley and wheat in the production of these products. Always check labeling and call manufacturers for the latest up-to-date info.

Restaurants and Shopping

Health food/grocery stores food bins can have cross-contamination problems because of the shared scoops. It is safer to buy packaged items. Be a smart shopper and get accurate information about the gluten-free diet from reliable sources. Store employees often do not know which grains/products are allowed on the gluten-free diet. When dining out ask about deep fryers and grills to see if they are cross contaminated. Ask for no breads or toast to be put on the plate or served with the meal. Let your server know you need gluten-free foods. Many restaurants are now offering special menus for the Celiac customers.

Medicine and Other Sources

Medications – prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs can contain wheat/gluten and lactose. Ask your pharmacist about safe gluten-free choices. Lotions, soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, lipstick, and make-up can contain wheat, oats, or barley. Check ingredients for this possible source of hidden gluten.

Children’s Play Dough contains wheat, as do many glues and glue sticks.

Charcoal briquettes, dry wall, and spray starch are also hidden sources of gluten!

Are you aware of other hidden sources of gluten? Please share them with us.