Does Oxo have wheat in it? Your complete guide

January 11, 2026 •

3 min read

For over 100 years, Oxo has been a staple in British kitchens, providing a quick and easy way to add rich flavour to meals. For those with dietary concerns, however, it is essential to know: does Oxo have wheat in it? The classic foil-wrapped Oxo stock cubes do contain wheat, while the brand’s newer, concentrated Stock Pots are certified as gluten-free.

Quick Summary

Classic Oxo stock cubes contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free, making them unsuitable for those with celiac disease or wheat sensitivities. In contrast, all varieties of Oxo Stock Pots are certified gluten-free and do not list wheat flour as an ingredient. It is crucial for consumers to read product labels carefully, as the presence of wheat varies by product type.

Key Points

Stock Cubes Contain Wheat: Traditional Oxo stock cubes, in all flavours, are made with wheat flour and are therefore not gluten-free.
Stock Pots Are Certified Gluten-Free: The entire range of Oxo Stock Pots is formulated without wheat and is certified gluten-free, making them safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Always Read the Label: Due to the brand's different product lines, it is crucial to always read the ingredient and allergen information on the packaging before use.
Check for the Crossed Grain Symbol: For gluten-free assurance, look for the official Crossed Grain symbol on Oxo Stock Pot packaging.
Packaging Is the Key Indicator: The small, solid, foil-wrapped cubes contain wheat, while the concentrated, jelly-like substance in a plastic pot is gluten-free.
Yeast Extract Can Cause Confusion: While yeast extract can be derived from barley (containing gluten), the final Stock Pot product is tested to be below the legal gluten-free threshold of 20ppm.

Oxo Stock Cubes vs. Oxo Stock Pots: The Key Difference

The most important distinction to understand when asking, "does Oxo have wheat in it?" is the product type. The answer is not universal across the entire Oxo brand but depends on whether you are using the traditional stock cubes or the more modern stock pots. The formulation and ingredients for these two product lines are fundamentally different, with significant implications for anyone on a gluten-free or wheat-free diet.

Oxo Stock Cubes Contain Wheat

Traditional Oxo stock cubes, which come individually wrapped in foil, are not gluten-free. An examination of the ingredients for the beef, chicken, and vegetable versions reveals that wheat flour is a standard component. This wheat flour is typically added as a binder or thickener to help hold the cube's compressed form together and improve its consistency in liquid. As a result, these cubes contain gluten and are not suitable for individuals with celiac disease, wheat allergies, or those following a gluten-free diet.

Examples of Ingredients in Oxo Stock Cubes:

Beef Cubes: Wheat Flour (with Added Calcium, Iron, Niacin, Thiamin), Salt, Maize Starch, Yeast Extract, Colour (Ammonia Caramel), Beef Fat, Dried Beef Bonestock, Flavourings.
Chicken Cubes: Wheat Flour (with added Calcium, Iron, Niacin, Thiamin), Salt, Dried Glucose Syrup, Flavour Enhancer (Monosodium Glutamate), Yeast Extract, Chicken Fat.
Vegetable Cubes: Salt, Potato Starch, Wheat Flour (with added Calcium, Iron, Niacin, Thiamin), Dried Glucose Syrup, Flavour Enhancers, Onion Extract, Flavourings.

Oxo Stock Pots Are Certified Gluten-Free

For those who need a wheat-free alternative, all of Oxo's Stock Pots are an excellent option. These pots contain a concentrated, jelly-like stock and are officially certified as gluten-free. Their formulation omits wheat flour, relying on other ingredients to achieve their texture and flavour. This means that a wide range of Stock Pots, including beef, chicken, vegetable, and others, are safe for coeliacs and those avoiding wheat. Look for the Crossed Grain symbol on the packaging, which is a clear indicator of its gluten-free status.

Features of Oxo Stock Pots:

No Wheat Flour: The ingredient list for Oxo Stock Pots does not include wheat flour, relying on alternative ingredients like gelling agents for texture.
Certified Gluten-Free: The products meet the legal requirements for gluten-free labelling, with testing ensuring a gluten level of 20 parts per million (ppm) or less.
Vegan-Friendly Options: Many of the Stock Pot varieties, particularly the vegetable ones, are also suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Reading Labels and Avoiding Confusion

Given the significant difference between product lines, it is absolutely essential to read the packaging carefully every time you purchase an Oxo product. Do not assume that because the brand name is the same, the ingredients are identical across all formats. This diligence is especially important for those with severe allergies or intolerances.


Comparison Table: Oxo Cubes vs. Stock Pots	Feature	Oxo Stock Cubes	Oxo Stock Pots
Contains Wheat/Gluten?	Yes	No (Certified Gluten-Free)
Format	Compressed, foil-wrapped cube	Concentrated, jelly-like stock in a plastic pot
Use	Dissolved in boiling water or crumbled into dishes	Dissolved in water or melted directly into dishes
Appearance	Small, solid block	Gelatinous substance
Allergen Labeling	"Contains Wheat" and "Cereals Containing Gluten"	"Gluten free" and potentially "Free From Cereals Containing Gluten"

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to the question "does Oxo have wheat in it?" is a definitive "it depends." Classic Oxo stock cubes are made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free, while all Oxo Stock Pots are certified gluten-free and do not contain wheat. For anyone managing a wheat allergy, celiac disease, or simply choosing a gluten-free diet, the product format is the critical indicator. Always check the packaging for clear allergen information, and you can enjoy the rich flavour of Oxo with confidence. For further information, the official OXO website can be a helpful resource.

Visit the official OXO FAQ for more information on their products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, standard Oxo beef stock cubes list 'Wheat Flour' as a key ingredient and are not suitable for a wheat-free diet.

Yes, Oxo's vegetable stock pots are officially certified as gluten-free. They are also suitable for vegans.

Yes, all varieties of Oxo Stock Pots are safe for individuals with celiac disease, as they are certified gluten-free.

The classic stock cube recipe uses wheat flour as a thickener, whereas the newer Stock Pot formulation was created to offer a convenient and high-quality gluten-free alternative.

No, even the reduced-salt stock cubes contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free. This applies to beef, chicken, and other reduced-salt cube varieties.

The key difference is the presence of wheat flour. The cubes contain wheat, while the stock pots are certified gluten-free.

The most accurate information is found on the product packaging itself. Recipes and ingredients can change, so it's always best to check the label before use.