Kamil Perry
Dairy products are generally gluten-free, and cheese is no exception. However, some cheeses are more likely to be gluten-free than others. For example, natural, non-processed cheeses like brie, cheddar, provolone, and ricotta are usually gluten-free. On the other hand, processed cheese products like cheese spreads or dips may contain gluten as an ingredient. When purchasing cheese, it's important to read the ingredient list to ensure it does not contain wheat, barley, rye, or their derivatives, especially if you are purchasing sliced cheese from a deli counter.
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What You'll Learn
Natural, non-processed cheeses are gluten-free
While natural, non-processed cheeses are gluten-free, some cheese products may contain gluten. Dairy, in general, is considered gluten-free. However, certain types of cheeses may contain gluten.
Some varieties of cheese that are usually gluten-free include blue cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, feta cheese, goat cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, provolone, ricotta cheese, Swiss cheese, and shredded cheese.
Cheese whiz, string cheese, cheese powder, and cheese spreads are usually gluten-free. However, it is important to read the labels of all packaged or processed cheese before eating it. Aside from wheat, barley, and rye, you also want to ensure the cheese does not contain wheat starch or modified food starch made from wheat. If you go to a deli counter to purchase cheese, the cheese must be gluten-free, and the machine used to slice the cheese must also be cleaned to prevent cross-contact.
Some suggest that mould cultures of blue cheese may be grown on wheat or rye bread, so read the ingredients label. Generally, unless the ingredients label includes wheat, barley, rye or their derivatives, cheese should be safe.
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Some cheeses are more likely to contain gluten
Dairy products, in general, are considered gluten-free. However, certain types of cheeses may contain gluten. Even if cheese is naturally gluten-free, cheese products may contain gluten. The healthiest type of cheese depends on an individual’s health needs. There are cheeses available to meet different nutrition needs, including full-fat, low-fat, fat-free, and reduced sodium varieties.
Cheese that has undergone additional processing, such as shredded cheese or cheese spread, is more likely to contain gluten. Gluten-containing ingredients are often used as thickeners in certain types of cheese or as a stabilizer to increase the shelf life. For example, gluten-containing ingredients may be added to low-fat, low-salt, and fat-free cheese to improve texture and taste. Cross-contamination is also a concern if the same tools or equipment are used to process gluten-containing products.
When purchasing cheese, it is important to check the ingredient list to ensure it is gluten-free. Look for the words “all-natural” on the label to reduce the likelihood of additives. Additionally, gluten-free labels can be trusted unless there is an issue with cross-contamination.
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Gluten-free cheese may be contaminated by gluten products
Dairy products, including cheese, are generally considered gluten-free. However, gluten may be added during the manufacturing of some cheeses and cheese products. Gluten is often added as a thickener or stabilizer to prolong shelf life and prevent ingredient separation. While natural cheese is typically gluten-free, gluten-free cheeses may sometimes become contaminated by products containing gluten. This contamination usually results in very small amounts of gluten and is typically only an issue for individuals with celiac disease.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the limit of gluten in a gluten-free product at less than 20 parts per million (ppm). Cheese contamination from cross-contact usually stays below this limit, and people with gluten sensitivity can usually tolerate contaminated foods. Nevertheless, those with celiac disease need to be vigilant about checking labels to ensure they do not inadvertently consume gluten.
To avoid gluten contamination in cheese, it is recommended to purchase cheese labelled as produced in gluten-free facilities. Additionally, when buying cheese from a deli counter, ensure that the slicing machine is cleaned to prevent cross-contact with gluten-containing products. Cheeses that have undergone additional processing, such as shredded cheese or cheese spreads, are more likely to contain gluten.
Some cheeses that are typically gluten-free include:
- Blue cheese
- Brie
- Cheddar
- Cottage cheese
- Cream cheese
- Provolone
- Ricotta
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Gluten is added to cheese as a thickener or stabiliser
Dairy products, including natural cheese, are typically gluten-free. However, gluten is sometimes added to cheese products as a thickening or stabilising agent to prolong their shelf life and prevent ingredient separation. Gluten-containing additives may also be added to improve the texture or taste of the cheese.
Cheeses that are low-fat, fat-free, or flavoured are more likely to contain gluten, as are processed cheeses, such as spreads and sauces. Some common gluten-containing additives used to improve texture include CMC 0.5% solution, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, and Xanthan Gum.
To ensure that a cheese product is gluten-free, it is important to read the label and look for ingredients such as wheat starch or modified food starch. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should be particularly vigilant about avoiding gluten, as even small amounts can cause issues.
While natural cheeses like brie, cheddar, provolone, and ricotta are typically gluten-free, it is always a good idea to check the ingredients list and look for a gluten-free label to be sure. Cross-contamination can also occur during preparation or processing, so purchasing from a gluten-free facility can help reduce this risk.
Unfortunately, I could not find specific information about whether Mantias cheese is gluten-free. However, by following the guidelines provided, you can make an informed decision about the safety of the product for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Gluten-free cheese alternatives
Dairy products are typically gluten-free, but some types of cheese may contain gluten. It is important to read the labels of all packaged or processed cheese before consuming it. Some common gluten-containing ingredients to look out for include wheat, barley, rye, wheat starch, and modified food starch made from wheat. If you are ever unsure about a particular brand, it is recommended to read the ingredient list and contact the manufacturer.
Some varieties of cheese that are usually gluten-free include:
- Blue cheese
- Brie
- Cheddar
- Cottage cheese
- Cream cheese
- Feta
- Goat cheese
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Provolone
- Ricotta
- Swiss cheese
There are also non-dairy cheese alternatives that are usually made from plant sources, such as soy or nuts. Some of these products are gluten-free, but it is important to check the ingredients as some may contain gluten. Here are some gluten-free cheese alternatives:
- Avocado
- Nutritional yeast
- Babybel Plant-Based Original Cheese Alternative
- Daiya Dairy-Free Block Cheddar
- Daiya Dairy-Free Mozzarella Shreds
- Lisanatti Foods The Original Almond Jalapeno Jack Style Cheese Alternative
- Esti Plant-Based Mozzarella Style Cheese Slices
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