Are Schwartz mixes gluten free? Here's what you need to know

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the brand's allergen information, Schwartz explicitly declares any ingredients containing gluten, such as wheat or barley, on its product labels. However, the answer to "Are Schwartz mixes gluten free?" is not a simple yes or no, as some products are safe while others are not. It is crucial for anyone with coeliac disease or a gluten sensitivity to check each product's specific packaging.

Quick Summary

This article explores which Schwartz mixes are suitable for a gluten-free diet, explaining the difference between the dedicated gluten-free range and other products. It details how to correctly interpret product labels and highlights cross-contamination risks for those with coeliac disease.

Key Points

Dedicated Gluten-Free Range: Schwartz has a specific line of recipe mixes, such as Fajitas and Bolognese, that are certified gluten-free.
Labeling is Critical: Always check the ingredient statement on the packaging for any products containing cereals with gluten, as declared by company policy.
Single-Ingredient Spices: Most pure, single-ingredient Schwartz herbs and spices are naturally gluten-free but should still be verified.
Cross-Contamination Risk: Standard Schwartz products are made in facilities that also handle gluten, posing a risk for those with coeliac disease.
Avoid Assumptions: Do not assume any Schwartz mix is gluten-free just because the brand has a safe range; check every package.
Look for the Symbol: The Coeliac UK crossed grain symbol on a product is a reliable indicator that it is safe for those with coeliac disease.
Ingredient Variations: Recipes and ingredients can change, so always verify the current packaging even for familiar products.

Understanding Schwartz's Gluten-Free Product Range

Schwartz provides a dedicated range of gluten-free recipe mixes specifically created for those on a gluten-free diet. These mixes, including options like Fajitas and Bolognese, are often endorsed by organizations such as Coeliac UK to assure safety. However, it's important to understand that not all Schwartz products are gluten-free. The company clearly states that ingredients containing gluten, such as wheat or barley, will be listed on the product label. Therefore, checking the packaging is essential.

The Importance of Label Reading

For individuals with coeliac disease or significant gluten sensitivity, reading product labels is a critical step to avoid potential health issues. Schwartz advises consumers to always refer to the most current ingredient information on the packaging. It's important to look for gluten-containing ingredients explicitly listed, and to understand that while flavourings won't hide major allergens like gluten, the source of ingredients like modified starch will be declared if derived from gluten-containing grains. Some older mixes may have contained barley or wheat, but current regulations require clear labeling.

Cereals containing gluten: Always check for wheat, rye, barley, and oats in the ingredients list.
Flavourings: These are not used to conceal major allergens like gluten, according to company policy.
Modified Starch: The source will be declared if it is derived from a gluten-containing grain.

Cross-Contamination Risks and Factory Practices

While Schwartz maintains specific controls for their dedicated gluten-free line, their standard products are made in facilities that also process gluten. This presents a cross-contamination risk, which can affect individuals with coeliac disease. Although the company uses allergen control programs, they cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free environment for standard products. Those with high sensitivity might prefer to stick to the certified gluten-free range.

Comparison of Schwartz Product Types


Feature	Dedicated Gluten-Free Mixes	Standard Spice Blends and Mixes
Labeling	Explicitly marked with 'Gluten Free' or the Coeliac UK crossed grain symbol.	Allergen information is listed in the ingredients; no universal 'Gluten Free' claim.
Ingredients	Formulated with gluten-free ingredients like potato starch, rice flour, and natural spices.	Some contain cereals like barley or wheat, which are clearly declared on the label.
Factory Environment	Produced with a high level of allergen control to prevent cross-contamination, often in a dedicated area.	Produced in facilities that also handle gluten, meaning a risk of cross-contact exists.
Packaging	Clearly indicates its gluten-free status, often with special branding or a symbol.	Standard packaging requires close inspection of the full ingredients list.
Safety for Coeliacs	High - Certified safe for those with coeliac disease.	Variable - Requires careful checking of ingredients and consideration of cross-contamination risk.

Navigating the Supermarket Aisle

When purchasing Schwartz products, always read the label. Single-ingredient items like Paprika or Cumin are typically naturally gluten-free. However, blended seasonings require careful checking as they may contain gluten. As ingredients can change, always check the current packaging. If unsure, opt for explicitly labelled gluten-free products or make your own blends from single-ingredient spices.

Conclusion: A Cautious Approach is Best

In conclusion, while Schwartz offers a safe, dedicated range of gluten-free recipe mixes suitable for coeliacs, not all of their products are gluten-free. Their labeling policy ensures that gluten-containing ingredients are clearly listed on the packaging. However, due to potential cross-contamination in general manufacturing facilities, those with coeliac disease should be vigilant and check every product label. For the highest level of safety, choose the certified gluten-free range or use pure, single-ingredient Schwartz herbs and spices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Schwartz offers a dedicated gluten-free range of recipe mixes, which are often labelled with the Coeliac UK crossed grain symbol.

No, not all Schwartz seasoning is gluten-free. Some standard mixes contain gluten-based ingredients, and others carry a cross-contamination risk.

To determine if a specific mix is gluten-free, you must read the ingredient statement on the product's packaging, where any gluten-containing cereals will be declared.

Many standard Schwartz products are produced in facilities that also handle gluten-containing ingredients, which poses a cross-contamination risk for individuals with coeliac disease.

Pure, single-ingredient spices like paprika or cumin are naturally gluten-free. However, it is still recommended to check the label for any cross-contamination warnings.

The most accurate and up-to-date allergen information will be on the ingredient statement printed on the product's packaging itself.

No, you should never rely on outdated information. Always check the current product label, as ingredients and manufacturing processes can change over time.

Schwartz produces several certified gluten-free recipe mixes, including options for Fajitas, Chilli con Carne, and Spaghetti Bolognese.