Are Kraft Cheeses Gluten-Free? A Guide to Kraft's Gluten-Free Labeling

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Kraft's labeling policy, the company will always clearly state if a product contains wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients. This makes determining if Kraft cheeses are gluten-free relatively straightforward, though consumers should always check the label, especially for processed varieties.

Quick Summary

Most Kraft cheese products are considered gluten-free and safe for a gluten-restricted diet, but vigilant label reading is critical. Processed items like shredded cheese use non-wheat anti-caking agents, and the company has clear labeling for any gluten-containing ingredients. The risk of cross-contamination in facilities remains a minor consideration.

Key Points

Kraft's Labeling is Transparent: The company clearly labels products containing gluten-based ingredients, such as wheat, making it easy for consumers to identify safe items.
Most Kraft Cheeses Are Gluten-Free: The majority of Kraft's cheese products, including singles, natural blocks, shredded, and grated varieties, are made without gluten-containing ingredients.
Check Processed Items: While most are safe, always read the label on processed products, flavored varieties, and cheese spreads to confirm their gluten-free status.
Anti-Caking Agents Are Gluten-Free: Kraft and other major brands use gluten-free agents like cellulose powder or potato starch in shredded cheese, not wheat flour.
Cross-Contamination is Possible: Although not a major concern for many, manufacturing facilities that handle other gluten products can pose a minor cross-contamination risk for individuals with extreme sensitivities.
Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese is Available: Kraft offers a specific gluten-free macaroni and cheese product made with corn pasta for those who need it, as their traditional version contains wheat.

Understanding Kraft's Gluten-Free Labeling Policy

For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, navigating the supermarket can feel like a minefield. When it comes to dairy giant Kraft, understanding their commitment to transparency is key. Kraft has a well-established labeling policy: they will always disclose on the ingredient list if a product contains wheat or other common gluten sources. This means if you don't see wheat, barley, or rye explicitly listed, the product should be safe from gluten-containing ingredients.

However, this does not mean every Kraft product is certified gluten-free by a third-party organization. While many of their cheese products are naturally gluten-free, their production facilities may also handle products containing gluten, leading to a minimal risk of cross-contamination. For most individuals, this risk is negligible, but those with extreme sensitivities should exercise caution.

Kraft's Processed vs. Natural Cheeses

It's important to distinguish between Kraft's natural cheeses and its more processed products. While pure, unflavored cheese is inherently gluten-free, some processed versions include additives. In the past, some shredded cheeses used wheat flour as an anti-caking agent, but Kraft, along with other major brands, has since transitioned to gluten-free alternatives like potato starch or powdered cellulose.

Kraft Singles: The classic American singles are made with milk, whey, and cheese culture, and do not contain gluten-based ingredients.
Natural Cheeses (Blocks & Shredded): Kraft's natural block cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or mozzarella, are naturally gluten-free. Their shredded versions use gluten-free anti-caking agents.
Grated Parmesan: Kraft grated parmesan cheese contains cellulose powder, not wheat-based flour, as an anti-caking agent and is considered gluten-free.
Flavored Cheeses and Spreads: These require more scrutiny. While many are safe, any with added spices or seasonings must be checked carefully. Kraft's labeling policy should be a reliable guide here, but due diligence is always recommended.

Which Kraft cheeses are safe on a gluten-free diet?


Product Category	Example Products	Status	Notes
Slices & Singles	Kraft Singles, Deli Deluxe American Slices	Generally Safe	Made without gluten-containing ingredients.
Shredded Cheese	Kraft Shredded Cheddar, Mozzarella	Generally Safe	Uses potato starch or cellulose powder as an anti-caking agent.
Grated Cheese	Kraft Grated Parmesan	Generally Safe	Cellulose powder is used to prevent clumping.
Block Cheese	Kraft Natural Cheddar, Colby Jack	Safe	Pure cheese is naturally gluten-free.
Cheese Spreads	Kraft Cheese Spread (some flavors)	Requires Check	Read ingredients list carefully for additives and flavorings.
Macaroni & Cheese	Kraft Gluten Free Mac & Cheese	Explicitly Safe	Dedicated gluten-free versions are available, clearly labeled.

The Cross-Contamination Consideration

While Kraft’s ingredient labeling is reliable, manufacturing environments can be complex. Facilities that produce both gluten-containing and gluten-free products present a small risk of cross-contamination. Kraft has strict cleaning and sanitation protocols, but for those with severe celiac disease, even trace amounts can be problematic. The company's labeling policy helps, but does not guarantee the product is entirely free of trace gluten. For example, their standard mac and cheese contains wheat, so while the cheese powder itself is gluten-free, it's mixed with wheat pasta. Kraft offers a dedicated gluten-free macaroni and cheese for this reason.

The Benefits of Reading Ingredients

Reading the ingredient list is the most important step for any person on a gluten-free diet. Look for common gluten sources like wheat, barley, rye, and malt. Kraft's helpful labeling goes a long way, but it is the individual's responsibility to confirm for themselves. For those concerned about potential cross-contamination, contacting the manufacturer directly or seeking out products with third-party gluten-free certification (like the GFCO mark) can provide an added layer of security.

Conclusion

For the vast majority of consumers, including those with gluten sensitivities, Kraft cheeses are gluten-free and safe to eat. The company's clear labeling policy for gluten-containing ingredients is a significant help, confirming that most of their processed and natural cheese products do not contain gluten. However, it is always recommended to check the ingredient list on the specific product you are buying. Individuals with severe celiac disease may want to consider products that are third-party certified to ensure no trace gluten is present. By being a vigilant label reader, you can confidently enjoy Kraft's wide selection of cheeses as part of your gluten-free lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Kraft Singles are considered gluten-free. Their primary ingredients are dairy-based, and Kraft's labeling policy means any gluten would be clearly listed on the package, which it is not.

Yes, Kraft shredded cheeses are gluten-free. Instead of wheat-based flour, Kraft uses gluten-free anti-caking agents like cellulose powder or potato starch to prevent clumping.

Yes, Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is gluten-free. It uses cellulose powder to prevent caking, and independent testing has confirmed it meets gluten-free standards.

Kraft will always list ingredients containing gluten (wheat, barley, rye, etc.) on their product labels. If you do not see these listed, the product is free of gluten-containing ingredients.

There is a minimal risk of cross-contamination in any facility that handles both gluten and non-gluten products. Individuals with severe celiac disease should contact the company for details or consider certified gluten-free options.

The most reliable method is to check the ingredient list on the specific package. If no gluten-containing ingredients are listed, the product is considered safe based on Kraft's policy.

No, the standard Kraft mac and cheese contains wheat pasta and is not gluten-free. However, Kraft does offer a specifically labeled 'Gluten Free Original Mac & Cheese' with corn pasta.