Wondering if your favorite mayo, ketchup, or mustard is gluten free? While these condiments are typically safe, not all brands are created equal — and hidden gluten or cross-contamination can sneak in. This guide breaks down what to look for and which brands are safe, including some found across the Middle East.
Are These Condiments Ever a Risk?
Yes — although mayo, ketchup, and mustard are usually made from naturally gluten-free ingredients, the risk lies in:
- Malt vinegar (contains gluten)
- Modified food starch (can be wheat-based)
- Flavorings or thickeners not clearly labeled
- Cross-contamination in factories
Always read the label. When in doubt, choose a product that is labeled gluten free or certified gluten free.
⚪️ Gluten-Free Mayonnaise: Safe Brands
- Hellmann’s – labeled gluten free in most regions
- Duke’s Mayonnaise – gluten free and no added sugar
- Sir Kensington’s – clearly labeled gluten free
- Chosen Foods – avocado oil mayo, certified GF
- NotCo Not Mayo – certified gluten free
- Follow Your Heart Vegenaise – labeled gluten free
- Puidor Vegan Mayonnaise (Lebanon) – gluten-, egg-, and dairy-free
🔴 Trusted Ketchup Brands
- Heinz Tomato Ketchup – labeled gluten free in most countries
- Hunt’s Ketchup – made without gluten-containing ingredients
- Annie’s Organic Ketchup – certified gluten free, organic, and vegan
- French’s Tomato Ketchup – labeled gluten free in the U.S. and Canada; check packaging in other regions
- Walden Farms Ketchup – labeled gluten free, sugar free, and vegan
- Organicville Organic Ketchup – USDA‑certified organic, GFCO‑certified gluten free, vegan and sweetened with agave nectar
⚠️ Avoid: Ketchup with malt vinegar or vague “natural flavors” if not labeled GF.
🟡 Gluten-Free Mustard: Safe Brands
- French’s Yellow Mustard – labeled gluten free in the U.S.; UK/EU packaging may not include the claim
- Grey Poupon Dijon – contains no gluten ingredients; not certified GF, so cross-contact risk exists
- Maille Dijon – some varieties are GF; others contain malt vinegar — check the label
- Annie’s Naturals – organic, certified GF
- Koops’ Mustard – clearly labeled GF options
⚠️ Be cautious with flavored mustards, beer mustard, and imported brands without clear labeling.
✅ Final Tips
- Choose condiments that are certified gluten free whenever possible.
- Be especially cautious with sauces in restaurants, bulk shops, or unlabeled containers.
- At home, store condiments separately to avoid cross-contact from bread crumbs.
