Is Pepperoni Gluten-Free?

Celiac.com 08/30/2023 - We get a lot of questions from celiac community members wondering if certain products are gluten-free. One question we see a lot is about meat products. Specifically, is pepperoni gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease? 

Traditionally prepared pepperoni consists of beef, pork, spices, and curing agents. These ingredients, on their own, are usually naturally gluten-free. So, Pepperoni is usually naturally gluten-free. However, some brands may use preservatives and grains, and some may have a risk of cross-contamination with wheat during the manufacturing process.

Look for gluten-free labels and ingredients

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There are a number of top brands of pepperoni that are labeled gluten-free and are safe for people with celiac disease.

When buying pepperoni, if you have celiac disease, it's good to look for products that have been labeled gluten-free, or certified gluten-free. In truth, though, if pepperoni is made in the USA without gluten ingredients, and does not have a wheat allergen warning, then it is likely safe. To be sure, it doesn't hurt to stick to brands that are labeled gluten-free, or are known by consumers to be safe. 

Brands of Pepperoni Labeled or Certified Gluten-Free, or Naturally Gluten-Free Without an Allergen Warning for Wheat:

Armour

• Armour Pepperoni

Boar's Head

• Boar's Head offers a wide variety of gluten-free deli meats, including pepperoni:
• Boar's Head Traditional Pepperoni - natural casing
• Boar's Head Pepperoni 

Dietz & Watson

• Dietz & Watson Legacy Sliced Pepperoni
• Dietz & Watson Pepperoni Twin Pack

HEB

• HEB Sliced Pepperoni

Hormel

• Hormel Pepperoni

There are likely many other brands of pepperoni that are gluten-free and safe. If we missed a favorite of yours, then be sure to share it in the comments below. 

As always, read labels carefully and avoid any gluten ingredients.