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Sources of Hidden Gluten

What is gluten?

Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye and most oats. While these are the obvious sources of gluten, there are some less obvious sources as well.

Different names for gluten

Outside of the main names for wheat, barley and rye, there are many other names you might not be as familiar with.

Other less common names for gluten ingredients include:

couscous

bulgur

durum

einkorn

emmer

farina

farro

freekeh / farik

graham

KAMUT® khorasan wheat

seitan

semolina

spelt

sourdough

triticale

wheat berries

For example: a salad with farro would NOT be gluten-free, as farro is a form of wheat, containing gluten.

Dishes and ingredients where gluten might be used

Outside of breads, pastas and pastries, there are many other less obvious ingredients or dishes commonly containing gluten. Any processed food with added ingredients should be checked.

Other less common dishes or ingredients containing gluten include:

 

Beer cheese: this cheese sauce uses beer which contains gluten.

Coated fries: some french fries have a coating that contains gluten.

Breaded or battered foods: these foods are often coated with flour.

Bacon bits: imitation bacon may contain gluten.

Ground meat dishes: items like meatballs, meat loaf and burgers can sometimes be made with breadcrumbs. 

Imitation crab: most imitation crab (or "Krab") used in sushi contains wheat.

Meat substitutes: some processed meat alternatives meant for vegetarians and vegans may contain gluten.

Sauces: some sauces may be thickened with flour such as gravy or demi glace.

Soups: some soups may be thickened with flour or use bouillon which may contain gluten.

Soy sauce: soy sauce contains wheat.

Spices: some spice mixes may contain gluten.

Salad dressings: some dressings may be thickened with flour.

This guide is meant to be a helpful resource and starting point. Beyond this page, we encourage you to check out Beyond Celiac's resource as well. 

If you think there is something else we should add to this page,

please let us know by emailing us at jason@findmeglutenfree.com!

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