Do Bouillon Cubes Have Gluten in Them? The Surprising Truth

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

While basic stock ingredients like meat and vegetables are naturally gluten-free, a significant number of commercial bouillon cubes and pastes contain added gluten as a filler or binding agent. This often comes as a surprise to those new to a gluten-free diet, highlighting the critical need for careful label reading.

Quick Summary

Bouillon cubes are not always gluten-free; many products contain wheat flour, malt flavoring, or other hidden sources of gluten. Reading labels thoroughly and looking for certification is essential for celiac sufferers or those with gluten sensitivity.

Key Points

Not Always Gluten-Free: Many conventional bouillon cubes contain gluten-based fillers like wheat flour for binding.
Hidden Gluten Ingredients: Be wary of 'Yeast Extract' and 'Natural Flavors' unless a product is certified gluten-free, as they can be derived from barley.
Check for Certification: The most reliable way to find safe bouillon is to look for a "Certified Gluten-Free" label on the package.
Brand Variation: A single brand might offer both gluten-free and gluten-containing products, so scrutinize each label individually.
Cross-Contamination Risk: Even with gluten-free ingredients, shared manufacturing facilities can introduce cross-contamination, a risk avoided by choosing certified products.
Homemade Alternatives: For complete control, consider making your own bouillon powder from nutritional yeast, herbs, and spices.

The Hidden Truth: Why Gluten Appears in Bouillon

Most consumers assume a product designed to add savory flavor to broths and soups would be free of common allergens like gluten. However, manufacturers frequently add gluten-containing ingredients for two primary reasons:

As a binder: Ingredients like wheat flour are inexpensive and effective binders, helping to hold the cubes together and prevent them from crumbling. This is especially common in the compressed, cube-shaped products.
As a flavor carrier: Certain flavor enhancers and additives, which are common in mass-produced bouillon, can be derived from gluten-containing grains. These include yeast extract, malt flavoring, and natural flavors.

Reading the Label: Ingredients That Signal Hidden Gluten

For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, becoming a meticulous label reader is non-negotiable. Many brands, even those from large parent companies like Unilever (Knorr) or Kraft, have different formulations for different products, so a safe brand doesn't mean every item is safe. Key ingredients to watch out for include:

Wheat Flour: The most obvious source of gluten, used as a binding agent.
Wheat Proteins: Used for flavor and texture, these are a definite no-go.
Yeast Extract or Autolyzed Yeast Extract: This is a tricky ingredient. Unless explicitly labeled gluten-free, it is often derived from barley and should be avoided.
Natural Flavors: The term "natural flavors" is vague and can mask a gluten source. If a product contains this and is not labeled gluten-free, it's best to avoid it.
Malt Flavoring: Derived from barley, this ingredient contains gluten.
Modified Food Starch: Can be derived from wheat. In the US, if it contains wheat, it must be declared, but it's still safer to opt for certified products.

How to Safely Choose Gluten-Free Bouillon

To navigate the bouillon aisle safely, follow these steps:

Seek Certified Gluten-Free Labels: The most reliable method is to find products with a "Certified Gluten-Free" seal. This means a third party has verified the product meets strict standards.
Read the Allergen Statement: In many regions, top allergens, including wheat, must be declared clearly on the label. Always scan this section for wheat.
Cross-Contamination Risk: Even if a product has no gluten-containing ingredients, it may still be produced in a facility that handles gluten. For those with severe sensitivity, certified products are the safest bet due to rigorous control measures.
Consider Liquid or Paste: Sometimes, bouillon pastes or liquids are less likely to contain binders than cubes, though this is not a guarantee. Always read the label.

Comparison of Bouillon Types


Feature	Gluten-Containing Bouillon Cubes	Certified Gluten-Free Bouillon	Homemade Bouillon Powder
Ingredients	May contain wheat flour, maltodextrin, yeast extract (from barley).	Verified ingredients; often use rice flour or cornstarch as binders.	Controlled ingredients, typically using nutritional yeast and spices.
Safety for Celiacs	Unsafe due to hidden gluten sources.	Safe, as certified to contain less than 20 ppm gluten.	Safe, as the user controls all ingredients.
Cross-Contamination	High risk, as products are often made on shared equipment.	Minimal risk, with certified processes to prevent cross-contamination.	No risk, assuming kitchen is free of cross-contamination.
Cost	Typically inexpensive.	Can be more expensive due to certification and specialized ingredients.	Cost-effective in the long run; requires initial ingredient investment.
Convenience	Very convenient, widely available.	Moderately convenient, availability varies by store.	Requires preparation time, but highly convenient once made.

Safe Brands and DIY Alternatives

Several brands are known for their commitment to gluten-free manufacturing and labeling. Herb-Ox offers certified gluten-free bouillon cubes and granules. Orrington Farms also produces a range of gluten-free broth bases and bouillon powders. However, brands like Better Than Bouillon explicitly state they cannot certify their products as gluten-free due to manufacturing practices. Always verify with a current label, as formulations can change over time.

For complete control and peace of mind, making your own bouillon is a great alternative. A simple and customizable bouillon powder can be created with nutritional yeast, spices like onion powder and garlic powder, and dried herbs. This process not only guarantees a gluten-free result but also allows for full control over sodium content and flavor profile. More information on the topic can be found at the Celiac Disease Foundation's guide to gluten-free living.

Conclusion

In summary, the assumption that bouillon cubes are naturally gluten-free is a misconception. Many conventional brands use gluten as a binder or as part of flavor-enhancing ingredients, posing a risk to individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The best strategy for safe consumption is to look for products clearly marked with a "Certified Gluten-Free" label, read ingredient lists meticulously, and be aware of ingredients like yeast extract and natural flavors that can harbor hidden gluten. For absolute assurance, crafting your own bouillon from scratch is a simple and rewarding option that guarantees a safe and flavorful result.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all bouillon cubes and powders are gluten-free. Many contain wheat flour or other gluten-derived ingredients as binders or flavor enhancers. It is crucial to check the ingredient list and look for certified gluten-free labels.

You should be on the lookout for ingredients such as wheat flour, barley, rye, malt flavoring, and possibly natural flavors or yeast extract if they are not explicitly labeled gluten-free.

If a product is not certified gluten-free, there is still a risk of cross-contamination from shared manufacturing equipment or the presence of hidden gluten in ingredients like yeast extract. It is safest to stick to certified products for those with celiac disease.

No, Better Than Bouillon is not gluten-free. According to their FAQ, they do not test for gluten and their products are made in a facility that houses wheat ingredients.

Some conventional cubes may be more likely to contain gluten as a binder, while powders might be less so. However, this is not a universal rule, and checking the label for specific ingredients and certification is always necessary regardless of form.

Yes, you can easily make your own gluten-free bouillon powder. A common recipe involves blending nutritional yeast, salt, and various dried herbs and spices like onion powder, garlic powder, and celery seed.

Brands like Herb-Ox, Orrington Farms, and BOU (check specific products and current labeling) often offer certified gluten-free bouillon options. Always verify the latest product information on the packaging.