Are Great Value classic ham steaks gluten-free?

December 28, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Walmart website, Great Value brand bone-in ham steaks are explicitly labeled as gluten-free. This is crucial information for consumers following a strict gluten-free diet, such as those with celiac disease, as not all processed meats are guaranteed to be free from hidden gluten ingredients.

Quick Summary

Great Value classic ham steaks are marked as gluten-free on the packaging and product listings, containing no gluten ingredients. It's always best to verify the latest ingredient list for any changes, especially with processed foods, to ensure safety on a gluten-free diet.

Key Points

Gluten-Free Label Confirmed: The product packaging and Walmart's website confirm that Great Value classic ham steaks are labeled gluten-free.
Ingredient List Verification: A review of the ingredient list shows no gluten-containing additives, such as wheat, barley, or rye.
FDA Standards Met: The gluten-free label signifies the product contains less than 20 parts per million of gluten, which is a safe level for most with celiac disease.
Processed Meat Precaution: While natural meat is gluten-free, processed products like ham steaks can sometimes contain hidden gluten, making label-checking essential.
Versatile and Convenient: The ham steaks are fully cooked and safe for various gluten-free recipes, including breakfasts, soups, and main courses.

Understanding Gluten in Processed Meats

While naturally, meat is gluten-free, processed meats are not always safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Gluten can be used as a binder, a filler, or an additive in flavorings and marinades. For this reason, checking labels thoroughly is a mandatory practice for anyone on a gluten-free diet. In the case of Great Value, their products, including the classic ham steaks, have been evaluated and labeled to provide this information clearly to consumers.

How to Confirm Gluten-Free Status

For those who need to double-check or prefer to confirm information themselves, here's how to verify the gluten-free status of a product like Great Value ham steaks.

Read the Package Label: Always check the physical packaging. The most reliable information is found directly on the product you are purchasing. Look for a "gluten-free" claim or certification symbol. In the case of Great Value ham steaks, this is typically stated on the label.
Review the Ingredient List: An ingredient list without any wheat, barley, or rye is a good sign. The ingredients for Great Value hardwood smoked ham steaks include pork cured with water, salt, sugar, and various sodium compounds for preservation. No gluten-containing ingredients are listed.
Check Online Product Descriptions: The Walmart website often includes detailed product specifications, including allergen information and dietary claims, which can be a good reference. Websites and apps dedicated to tracking food allergens also report this information.

Potential for Cross-Contamination

Even if a product doesn't contain gluten ingredients, cross-contamination is a concern, especially in facilities that produce both gluten-containing and gluten-free foods. A "gluten-free" label, as per FDA guidelines, means the product contains less than 20 parts per million of gluten, a level generally considered safe for celiac patients. While Great Value is produced in mass quantities, the labeling indicates that the company adheres to these standards for their ham steaks.

Comparison of Great Value and Other Brands

For shoppers with specific dietary needs, comparing different brands can be helpful. The table below compares Great Value classic ham steaks with other commonly available gluten-free ham options.


Feature	Great Value Classic Ham Steaks	Farmland Hickory Smoked Ham Steaks	Dearborn Brand Classic Trim Ham Steak
Gluten-Free Label	Yes, explicitly stated on product packaging and online.	Yes, explicitly stated on the product.	Yes, all Dearborn Hams are advertised as gluten-free.
Primary Curing Ingredients	Water, salt, sugar, and sodium compounds.	Uses hickory smoking and other standard curing ingredients.	Specific ingredients not detailed, but known as a classic trim.
Flavor Profile	Hardwood smoked for a traditional, savory flavor.	Hickory smoked for a robust flavor.	Known for its juicy, classic flavor.
Availability	Widely available at Walmart stores and online.	Found at Walmart and other grocery stores.	Regional brand, may have limited availability depending on location.
Price Point	Generally a budget-friendly option.	Competitively priced.	Pricing may vary depending on the retailer.

Versatility in a Gluten-Free Kitchen

Knowing that Great Value classic ham steaks are gluten-free opens up many possibilities for meal preparation. This product's fully cooked nature and robust flavor make it a convenient ingredient for various gluten-free meals. Here are some ideas:

Gluten-Free Ham and Eggs: Sliced ham steak is a perfect protein addition to a breakfast plate with eggs and gluten-free toast.
Flavorful Additions to Soups: Dice the ham steak and add it to gluten-free soups and stews for a smoky, savory depth of flavor.
Main Course for Dinner: Serve the ham steak as a main course alongside gluten-free mashed potatoes, rice, or other gluten-free side dishes.
Gluten-Free Sandwiches: A hot ham and cheese sandwich can be easily made with ham steak and gluten-free bread.
Incorporated into Casseroles: Use diced ham steaks in gluten-free casseroles for a hearty, flavorful component.

Conclusion: A Safe Choice for Many

For those navigating a gluten-free lifestyle, Great Value classic ham steaks are a reliable choice. The product is clearly labeled as gluten-free on both its packaging and the Walmart website, indicating that it is free from gluten-containing ingredients and meets established safety standards. While cross-contamination is always a potential concern in any shared manufacturing environment, the "gluten-free" label provides a high level of assurance. As with any packaged food, always give the label a quick check for the most current information. This small step ensures a delicious and worry-free addition to your gluten-free meal planning.

Great Value Product Page at Walmart

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Great Value classic ham steak is considered safe for people with celiac disease because it is labeled as gluten-free and manufactured to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten, meeting FDA standards.

You can find the gluten-free claim directly on the product's packaging. Additionally, the Walmart product listing for Great Value ham steaks explicitly states it is gluten-free.

While the gluten-free label is reliable, it's always good practice to quickly review the ingredient list for peace of mind, especially if you have other sensitivities. However, the label is regulated and should be trusted.

The main ingredients include pork cured with water, sugar, salt, and less than 2% of various sodium-based preservatives, with no gluten-containing ingredients listed.

Yes, processed meats can sometimes contain gluten when used as a binder, filler, or as part of flavorings. This is why reading labels is critical for those on a gluten-free diet.

While the classic ham steaks are labeled gluten-free, it is essential to check the specific packaging for every Great Value ham product you purchase, as ingredients and processing can differ between products.

The "gluten-free" label is intended to address cross-contamination by limiting gluten content to safe levels (below 20ppm). While not entirely risk-free, the label indicates a high level of precaution in the manufacturing process.