Frederic Melton
Parmesan cheese is a staple in many kitchens, adding a salty, nutty kick to pasta dishes, salads, and soups. But is it suitable for gluten-free diets? The short answer is yes, Parmesan cheese is naturally gluten-free. However, some processed cheese products may contain gluten, so it is important to always check the label.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is Parmesan Cheese Gluten-Free? | Yes, Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. |
| Exceptions | Gluten may be added after processing. |
| Kraft Parmesan Cheese | Kraft Parmesan cheese is considered gluten-free, although it is not labelled as such. |
| Milano's Imported Parmesan Cheese | This brand of Parmesan cheese is labelled gluten-free. |
| Other Gluten-Free Cheeses | Mozzarella, Provolone, Ricotta, Swiss, Blue Cheese, Brie, and more. |
| Non-Gluten-Free Cheeses | Cheese spreads, dairy-free cheese, shredded cheese, and more may contain gluten. |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft Parmesan cheese is gluten-free
It is important to read the labels of all packaged or processed cheese before eating it. Aside from wheat, barley, and rye, you should also check for 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 be cleaned to prevent cross-contact.
Cheese spreads are usually gluten-free, but make sure to read the label as there may be gluten in the ingredients used to create the spread's consistency or add flavouring. While most cheeses by themselves do not contain gluten, foods that contain cheese as one ingredient may not be gluten-free. For example, cheesecake is not gluten-free unless specified on the label because the crust is made with wheat flour. Breaded mozzarella sticks are also not gluten-free unless specified on the label because they are coated in breadcrumbs.
Some other brands of Parmesan cheese that are labelled gluten-free include Milano's Grated Imported Parmesan Cheese, Mama Francesca Premium Parmesan Cheese, and BelGioiso BelGioiso parmesan style cheese.
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Parmesan is naturally gluten-free
Some shredded cheeses may contain starch or cellulose to prevent shreds from sticking together. Although the starches or cellulose used in shredded cheese typically do not contain gluten, if the cellulose is derived from wheat, it should be stated on the label. Therefore, it is important to read the labels of shredded Parmesan cheese to ensure it is gluten-free.
Some brands of Parmesan cheese, such as Kraft, are not labelled gluten-free but do not contain any gluten ingredients and do not have any wheat or gluten allergy warnings. The only allergen listed on the label is milk. Hence, it is generally safe for people with celiac disease.
Milano's Grated Imported Parmesan Cheese is an example of a brand of Parmesan cheese that is labelled gluten-free.
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Gluten-free alternatives to Parmesan
Parmesan cheese is generally considered gluten-free, as gluten is not usually an ingredient in the cheese-making process. However, for those with gluten intolerance, sensitivity, or celiac disease, it is crucial to be cautious and vigilant about checking labels or contacting manufacturers to ensure that the product is entirely gluten-free.
Vegan Parmesan
Vegan Parmesan cheese is an excellent alternative for those following a plant-based or vegan diet. It offers the rich, nutty flavour of Parmesan without the dairy or gluten. Brands like Violife offer a "Just Like Parmesan Wedge" that is dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free, allowing you to enjoy Italian authenticity on your pasta without any concerns.
Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is a popular gluten-free option that can be used in place of Parmesan cheese. It provides a similar savoury and cheesy flavour profile, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes.
Other Cheese Varieties
There are several other types of cheese that are naturally gluten-free, such as mozzarella, provolone, ricotta, Swiss cheese, and shredded cheese. When purchasing shredded cheese, it is still important to read the labels to ensure that no gluten-containing starches or cellulose have been added.
Gluten-Free Brands of Parmesan
If you specifically want to enjoy Parmesan cheese, you can look for brands that offer gluten-free options. For example, Milano's Grated Imported Parmesan Cheese is labelled as gluten-free. Additionally, Kraft Parmesan Cheese, while not labelled as gluten-free, does not contain any gluten ingredients and is considered safe for people with celiac disease.
Remember, when in doubt, always read the labels, avoid gluten ingredients, and choose carefully. The availability of gluten-free alternatives ensures that everyone can find tasty and nutritious options that meet their dietary needs.
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Gluten-free labelling and ingredients
Parmesan cheese is naturally gluten-free. However, gluten may be added after processing, so it is important to read the label. Some brands of Parmesan cheese, like Milano's Grated Imported Parmesan Cheese, are labelled gluten-free. Kraft Parmesan cheese, for example, does not have a gluten-free label, but it contains no gluten ingredients and does not have any wheat or gluten allergy warnings. The only allergen listed on the label is milk.
In general, when it comes to gluten-free labelling and ingredients, it is important to note that the only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a regulation that defines the term "gluten-free" for food labelling. This definition provides consumers, especially those with celiac disease, assurance that "gluten-free" claims on food products are consistent and reliable. The rule specifies that any food labelled "gluten-free", "no gluten", "free of gluten", or "without gluten" must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This level is the lowest that can be reliably detected in foods using scientifically validated analytical methods.
It is important to read the ingredients list even if a product is labelled gluten-free. Check for hidden or questionable ingredients that may contain gluten. Some obvious ingredients to look out for include wheat, rye, barley, and their crossbred hybrids like triticale. Also, look for ingredients derived from these grains that have not been processed to remove gluten, or ingredients derived from these grains that have been processed to remove gluten but still result in the food containing 20 ppm or more gluten.
Manufacturers are not required to test for the presence of gluten in ingredients or in the finished gluten-free-labelled food product. However, they are responsible for ensuring that the food product meets all labelling requirements. The FDA may perform food label reviews, follow up on consumer and industry complaints, and analyse food samples. Consumers and manufacturers can report any complaints about potential misuse of gluten-free claims on food labels to an FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator.
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Gluten-free cheese spreads
Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. Unless gluten is added after processing, most brands of whole, shredded, or ground Parmesan cheese are gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease. For example, Kraft Parmesan cheese does not contain any gluten ingredients and does not have any wheat or gluten allergy warnings. The same is true of most brands of Parmesan cheese, whether they are whole, shredded, or grated.
When it comes to cheese spreads, most cheese does not contain gluten. However, it is important to read the labels of all packaged or processed cheese products before consuming them, as foods that contain cheese as one ingredient may not be gluten-free. Cheese spreads, sauces, and some pre-packaged cheeses may contain gluten for texture or flavor. While Price's cheese spreads do not contain any gluten ingredients, they cannot be confirmed to be gluten-free as some of their ingredient suppliers cannot confirm that their products are gluten-free. The Cello brand, on the other hand, is a safe choice for gluten-free cheese lovers as they ensure their cheeses are gluten-free.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. However, some brands may contain gluten ingredients added during processing, so it is important to read the labels of all packaged or processed cheese before eating it.
Milano's Grated Imported Parmesan Cheese and Kraft Parmesan Cheese are examples of gluten-free brands.
Other cheeses that are gluten-free include cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, provolone, and ricotta.
