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Do Arm and Hammer Have Gluten? A Comprehensive Guide for Safe Use

3 min read

Celiac disease affects approximately 1% of the global population, making it vital to understand the gluten content of everyday products. So, do Arm and Hammer have gluten? The answer varies based on the product, with some being naturally gluten-free and others requiring caution due to potential cross-contamination.

Quick Summary

This guide explores the gluten status of several Arm & Hammer products, including baking soda, toothpaste, and laundry detergent. The guide covers which products are gluten-free, the possibility of cross-contamination, and provides advice on label reading for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Key Points

  • Baking Soda is Gluten-Free: Arm & Hammer baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate and is gluten-free for food.

  • Toothpaste is Gluten-Free: Arm & Hammer toothpastes are made without gluten ingredients.

  • Check Laundry Detergent Labels: While the 'Clean & Simple' line is gluten-free, other detergent formulations may not be guaranteed gluten-free.

  • Exercise Caution with Deodorants: Ingredients in deodorants may be corn-derived, and cross-contamination is not ruled out.

  • Cross-Contamination is a Risk: There is a risk of cross-contamination from shared manufacturing facilities or equipment for any product not explicitly certified.

  • Always Read Labels: Product formulations can change, so review the ingredient list each time you buy a product.

In This Article

Baking Soda: A Gluten-Free Standard

Arm & Hammer baking soda is a popular product, especially in cooking and baking. Fortunately for those sensitive to gluten, pure baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is naturally gluten-free. Arm & Hammer confirms its baking soda is gluten-free when used for food. It is composed of a single ingredient derived from mineral deposits, not gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye.

The primary concern for individuals with celiac disease or a high gluten sensitivity with any naturally gluten-free product is the potential for cross-contamination during manufacturing. However, sources like Celiac.com and Organically Addison state that Arm & Hammer baking soda is safe for those with celiac disease. The company's consistent manufacturing processes and commitment to a pure product make it a reliable choice for gluten-free baking. When purchasing, always select the food-grade version, typically in the baking aisle, and not a cleaning-grade product.

Gluten Status of Other Arm & Hammer Products

While baking soda is straightforward, the gluten status of other products varies. The company produces various household and personal care items, so it is essential to check each one individually.

Toothpaste and Dental Products

Arm & Hammer toothpastes are generally safe for those concerned about gluten in oral hygiene products. The company states that its toothpastes do not contain gluten as an ingredient and are made on lines that do not share equipment with gluten products. This makes them a good option for people trying to avoid gluten, even in small amounts. Multiple resources confirm Arm & Hammer toothpaste is gluten-free.

Laundry Detergents

The situation with laundry detergents is more complex. There was some uncertainty regarding the gluten-free status of all Arm & Hammer detergents in the past. However, the company has released specific products certified gluten-free, such as the Arm & Hammer Clean & Simple™ Laundry Detergent. This product line is free of several common allergens, including gluten. For other Arm & Hammer detergents, especially older ones, those highly sensitive should check the packaging or contact the company directly, as formulations can change over time.

Deodorants and Anti-Perspirants

When considering personal care items like deodorants, Arm & Hammer has provided statements about the use of corn-derived ingredients. Although corn itself is gluten-free, cross-contamination at the supplier level is a potential concern for some. In past communications, the company stated that certain deodorant products contained ingredients like sorbitol from corn starch, but they could not certify the product for gluten intolerance. It is recommended to be cautious and review updated product information for this category.

Comparison Table: Gluten Status of Arm & Hammer Products

Product Category Gluten Status Notes for Celiac/Sensitive Individuals
Baking Soda Gluten-Free Made of naturally gluten-free sodium bicarbonate and considered safe.
Toothpaste Gluten-Free Formulated and manufactured without gluten.
Laundry Detergent (Clean & Simple™) Certified Gluten-Free Specifically certified free of gluten and other allergens.
Other Laundry Detergents Caution Advised Formulations vary; historical statements have been ambiguous regarding cross-contamination risk.
Deodorant/Anti-Perspirant Caution Advised Contains ingredients derived from corn and the company cannot verify as 100% gluten-free.
Dental Care Gum Gluten-Free Confirmed to not contain gluten.

Label Reading and Certifications for Safe Use

For those with celiac disease, relying on a product being “naturally” gluten-free can be risky due to cross-contamination. Always follow these best practices when making purchasing decisions:

  • Read every label: Product formulas and manufacturing practices can change, even for trusted brands. Always review the ingredients list.
  • Look for certification seals: Seek third-party certification seals, such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) seal.
  • Check for disclaimers: Be wary of disclaimers that state a product is manufactured in a facility that also processes wheat. Even though many products are made on separate lines, some companies do not specify this.
  • Contact the manufacturer: Contacting the manufacturer directly is the most reliable way to obtain up-to-date information on their production practices if you have any doubts.

Conclusion

Whether Arm and Hammer products have gluten depends on the item. Their food-grade baking soda is a reliable, naturally gluten-free product, and their toothpaste is also made to be gluten-free. For items like older laundry detergent formulations and deodorants, caution is necessary because of the potential for cross-contamination or ingredient sourcing complexities. Consumers can confidently navigate the Arm & Hammer product line by checking labels, looking for certifications, and focusing on product lines specifically marketed as gluten-free. Certified gluten-free products are best for those with celiac disease for peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Arm & Hammer baking soda is safe. It is a naturally gluten-free product and is considered a safe option.

The risk of cross-contamination may exist due to shared facilities or ingredient sourcing, though the company manufactures some products like toothpaste on dedicated gluten-free lines. Always check the specific product or contact the manufacturer if you are highly sensitive.

The Arm & Hammer Clean & Simple™ Laundry Detergent is certified gluten-free. It's best to check the label for gluten-free claims for other detergent varieties.

No, Arm & Hammer toothpaste is made without gluten and is manufactured on separate equipment. It is considered safe for those on a gluten-free diet.

Someone with celiac disease should always read the product label, look for gluten-free certification, and contact the company directly with questions about manufacturing processes or ingredient sourcing.

No, it is necessary to evaluate each product individually. The gluten status varies across different categories, such as baking soda versus deodorant.

Some Arm & Hammer deodorants use corn-derived ingredients. Since the company has not certified these products for gluten intolerance due to potential supplier-level issues, caution is advised if you are highly sensitive.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.