Patrick Oconnell
There is a common misconception that shredded cheese is not gluten-free. However, most shredded cheese brands are gluten-free, but not all. Some shredded cheese manufacturers use starch or cellulose to prevent the shreds from sticking together, and while starches and cellulose used in shredded cheese typically don't contain gluten, if the cellulose is derived from wheat, it should be stated on the label. It is always important to read the labels of packaged or processed cheese before consuming it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is packaged shredded cheese gluten-free? | Shredded cheese is usually gluten-free. Some may contain starch or cellulose to prevent the shreds from sticking together. However, the starches/cellulose used in shredded cheese typically don’t contain gluten. |
| How to be sure? | If the cellulose used is derived from wheat, this should be called out on the label. If you’re unsure about a particular brand of shredded cheese, read its label to see if it includes any gluten-containing ingredients such as wheat, barley, rye, wheat starch, or modified food starch made from wheat. |
| Examples of gluten-free shredded cheese brands | Sargento, Crystal Farms, Tillamook, Borden, Cabot, Kraft |
| Other gluten-free cheese options | Blue cheese, Brie, Swiss cheese, string cheese or cheese sticks, cheese powder, cream cheese |
| Foods to avoid if you are gluten intolerant | Beer-washed cheeses, breaded mozzarella sticks, cheesecake, repackaged cheese from the deli counter, meat or fish on display in refrigerator cases |
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What You'll Learn
Most packaged shredded cheese is gluten-free
Shredded cheese is typically coated in anti-caking agents to prevent the shreds from sticking together. These agents can include cellulose powder, food starch, or potato starch. While cellulose powder is usually gluten-free, it is sometimes extracted from wheat starch, which contains gluten. Therefore, it is important to check the ingredient list for any sources of gluten or cross-contamination.
Some popular shredded cheese brands that are gluten-free include Kraft, Sargento, Crystal Farms, and Tillamook. These brands use anti-caking agents such as potato starch, powdered cellulose, or cornstarch, which are all gluten-free. However, it is always a good idea to check the websites or product packaging for the most up-to-date information.
When purchasing cheese, it is generally safer to choose cheese that has been packaged by the manufacturer rather than cheese that has been cut and packaged at a local grocery store or deli counter. This is because there is a higher risk of cross-contamination with gluten-containing foods in the store or deli environment.
In summary, most packaged shredded cheese is gluten-free, but it is important to read labels and be cautious when purchasing cheese to avoid any potential gluten contamination.
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Anti-caking agents like potato starch are often gluten-free
Shredded cheese is usually gluten-free. However, some shredded cheese products may contain starch or cellulose to prevent the shreds from sticking together. This is known as an anti-caking agent. The starches or cellulose used in shredded cheese typically don't contain gluten. In fact, anti-caking agents like potato starch are often gluten-free. Potato starch is a flavourless ingredient that is commonly used in recipes as a thickening agent. It is also used as a coating for fried foods.
Potato starch is gluten-free, meaning it can be used as a plain flour alternative in some recipes. It is a suitable gluten-free addition to baking recipes and can be used as a thickener in a variety of recipes as it absorbs water effectively. However, it is important to note that extreme heat may cause potato starch to break down, impacting its thickening effect. Therefore, it is recommended to heat potato starch gently and add it gradually to sauces.
Other gluten-free alternatives to wheat flour include tapioca starch, arrowroot powder, rice flour, and cornstarch. These alternatives can be used as thickeners or flour substitutes in gluten-free recipes. For example, cornstarch can be used as a 1:1 substitute for potato starch in soups, sauces, and gravies. It can also be added to baked goods, although it may not handle high temperatures as well as potato starch.
While shredded cheese is typically gluten-free, it is important to read the labels of packaged or processed cheese products. Aside from wheat, barley, and rye, individuals should also ensure that the product does not contain wheat starch or modified food starch made from wheat. Some shredded cheese products may not have gluten-free labelling, even though they are considered gluten-free. In such cases, it is advisable to read the ingredients list to verify the absence of gluten-containing ingredients.
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Some shredded cheese may contain gluten-based starch or cellulose
It is a common misconception that shredded cheese is not gluten-free. This myth stems from the belief that shredded cheese is coated in flour to prevent clumping. However, this is not the case, as most shredded cheese brands are gluten-free.
It is worth noting that some cheese manufacturers may use wheat as a catalyst when making blue cheese, so it is recommended to contact the maker to ensure it is safe. Furthermore, cheese cut and packaged at individual grocery stores may be at risk of cross-contamination if sliced on the same cutting boards as bread or sandwiches. Therefore, it is advised to look for cheese packaged by the manufacturer to reduce the risk of gluten exposure.
While most shredded cheese is gluten-free, it is always good to be cautious and read the labels, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or allergies.
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Always read the label to check for gluten-containing ingredients
Most shredded cheese is gluten-free, but it is always important to read the label to check for gluten-containing ingredients. While most cheeses are made with milk, cultures, and rennet, some manufacturers may add wheat or gluten ingredients during or after processing. Therefore, it is crucial to scrutinise the ingredients list for any gluten-containing components, such as wheat, barley, rye, wheat starch, or modified food starch made from wheat.
When purchasing shredded cheese, it is important to be aware of anti-caking agents used to prevent the shreds from sticking together. While starches and cellulose are commonly used, they typically do not contain gluten. Potato starch, for instance, is a gluten-free option often used in shredded cheese products. However, if cellulose is derived from wheat, it should be clearly stated on the label. Therefore, reading the label is essential to ensure the product is gluten-free.
Some shredded cheese brands may not have explicit gluten-free labelling, which can make it challenging to determine their gluten content. In such cases, examining the ingredients list for any gluten-containing components is crucial. Additionally, some manufacturers may provide information on their websites or FAQ pages regarding the gluten content of their products. It is worth checking these sources to gain further clarity.
When buying packaged shredded cheese, it is important to consider the potential for cross-contamination. Cheese cut and packaged at individual grocery stores may be at a higher risk of cross-contamination if it is prepared on the same surfaces as gluten-containing foods. Therefore, opting for cheese packaged by the manufacturer may be a safer choice. Additionally, when purchasing shredded cheese from a deli counter, ensure that the cheese is gluten-free and that the slicing machine is cleaned to prevent cross-contact.
While most shredded cheese is gluten-free, it is always advisable to be cautious and vigilant. Reading labels, checking ingredients lists, and seeking information from manufacturers' websites or FAQ pages can help ensure that the shredded cheese you consume aligns with your gluten-free dietary requirements.
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People with celiac disease should be cautious when eating out
Shredded cheese is usually gluten-free, although some may contain starch or cellulose to prevent the shreds from sticking together. The starches or cellulose used in shredded cheese typically don't contain gluten, and potato starch, which is gluten-free, is often used. If the cellulose is derived from wheat, it should be stated on the label. Therefore, it is important to read the labels of all packaged or processed cheese before eating it.
Even with these precautions, it is challenging to find a restaurant that can guarantee a completely gluten-free meal. Some people with celiac disease, especially those in the initial stages of recovery, may also experience additional food intolerances, which can further complicate eating out. Therefore, it is recommended that people with celiac disease seek advice from a doctor or registered dietitian to maintain a balanced diet while avoiding gluten. A dietitian can help identify and avoid gluten-containing foods and drinks when eating out and provide guidance on which restaurants may be able to cater to a gluten-free diet.
It is important to note that a gluten-free diet is a medical necessity for people with celiac disease, and it is not a fad or lifestyle choice. Untreated celiac disease can lead to severe malnutrition and serious health consequences, including osteoporosis, anemia, infertility, liver disease, neuropathy, and seizures. Therefore, people with celiac disease must be vigilant about their food choices, both when eating out and at home, to avoid gluten and prevent adverse health effects.
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Frequently asked questions
Shredded cheese is usually gluten-free. However, it is always good to check the label to ensure that no gluten-containing ingredients have been added.
Gluten-containing ingredients to look out for include wheat, barley, rye, wheat starch, and modified food starch made from wheat.
It is a common myth that shredded cheese is coated in flour to prevent clumping. However, this is not true. Instead, shredded cheese uses anti-caking agents like potato starch, corn starch, or cellulose powder.
Yes, many shredded cheese brands are gluten-free. Some popular brands that offer gluten-free shredded cheese include Kraft, Sargento, Crystal Farms, and Tillamook.
Yes, most shredded cheese is gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease. However, it is important to read the labels and ensure that no gluten-containing ingredients have been added during processing.
