Does Vinegar Contain Gluten? The Definitive Guide for Your Gluten-Free Diet

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, most distilled vinegars are gluten-free, even if derived from gluten-containing grains. This fact is critical for anyone asking, "Does vinegar contain gluten?" and trying to navigate a safe, gluten-free diet.

Quick Summary

Most vinegars, including distilled, apple cider, and wine, are gluten-free. However, malt vinegar is made from barley and contains gluten. Distillation removes gluten proteins, but label-checking is crucial for flavored varieties and to ensure no additives are used.

Key Points

Malt Vinegar Contains Gluten: Derived from barley and not distilled, malt vinegar must be avoided on a gluten-free diet.
Distillation Makes Vinegar Safe: The process of distillation removes the gluten protein, making distilled white vinegar gluten-free, regardless of its starting grain.
Most Vinegars Are Naturally Gluten-Free: Apple cider, wine, and traditional balsamic vinegars are naturally gluten-free as they are derived from fruit sources.
Always Check Labels for Additives: Flavored vinegars and sauces containing vinegar should be scrutinized for hidden gluten-containing ingredients, including malt.
Look for Gluten-Free Certifications: When uncertain about a product's processing or ingredients, a reputable third-party gluten-free certification mark provides the highest level of assurance.
Exercise Caution with Asian Vinegars: Some imported rice or black vinegars may contain other grains like wheat in their production, necessitating careful label reading.

Understanding Vinegar and Gluten

For anyone following a gluten-free diet, knowing the source and processing of common ingredients is essential. Vinegar is a staple condiment, but its gluten-free status depends entirely on its type and manufacturing process. The primary risk factor is the use of gluten-containing grains like barley in the fermentation process without a subsequent distillation step to remove the gluten proteins.

The Role of Distillation in Removing Gluten

Distillation is a key factor in determining if a vinegar is gluten-free. This process involves boiling the liquid and collecting the steam, which leaves the heavier gluten proteins behind. This is why distilled white vinegar is safe, even if it's made from a gluten-containing grain like corn or wheat. The gluten protein is too large to carry over in the distillation process. This makes the finished product safe for most people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, some individuals with extreme sensitivity still choose to avoid these products due to personal experiences or concerns about trace cross-contamination.

Types of Vinegar and Their Gluten Status

Gluten-Free Vinegars (Generally Safe):

Distilled White Vinegar: Most commercially available distilled white vinegar is made from corn and is considered gluten-free due to the distillation process. Always check for a “gluten-free” label for extra assurance.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This vinegar is made from fermented apple juice and is naturally gluten-free. Both filtered and unfiltered varieties (containing "the mother") are safe.
Wine Vinegars (Red and White): Made from fermented wine grapes, these are naturally gluten-free and safe for consumption.
Balsamic Vinegar: Traditional balsamic vinegar is made from grape must and is naturally gluten-free. Cheaper versions or balsamic glazes might contain additives, so checking the ingredient list is necessary. Look for IGP/PGI or DOP/PDO labels for guaranteed safety.
Rice Vinegar: Made from fermented rice, this type is typically gluten-free. However, some imported Asian varieties may contain a mix of grains or added seasonings that include gluten, so check labels carefully.
Sherry Vinegar: Derived from sherry wine, this vinegar is gluten-free.

Vinegar That Is NOT Gluten-Free:

Malt Vinegar: Made from malted barley, malt vinegar is fermented but not distilled, meaning it contains gluten. It is not safe for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity and should be completely avoided.

Navigating Cross-Contamination and Labeling

While most single-ingredient vinegars are straightforward, blended, and flavored vinegars require caution due to potential cross-contamination or hidden gluten-containing ingredients. The FDA has labeling rules for fermented or hydrolyzed products, but looking for a "gluten-free" certification is always the safest bet. If a product is not certified, a generic term like "vinegar" could refer to malt vinegar, especially in products without a gluten-free label. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer directly to confirm the ingredients and processing practices.

Comparison of Common Vinegar Types


Vinegar Type	Source	Distilled?	Gluten Status	Notes
Malt Vinegar	Malted Barley	No	Contains Gluten	Must be avoided by celiacs. Often used for fish and chips.
Distilled White Vinegar	Corn or grain alcohol	Yes	Gluten-Free	The distillation process removes gluten proteins.
Apple Cider Vinegar	Apples	No (fermented)	Gluten-Free	Naturally gluten-free as apples do not contain gluten.
Wine Vinegar	Grapes (wine)	No (fermented)	Gluten-Free	Made from grapes, which are naturally gluten-free.
Balsamic Vinegar	Grapes (must)	No (aged)	Gluten-Free	Authentic versions are safe. Watch for additives in cheaper varieties.
Rice Vinegar	Rice	Not necessarily	Check Label	Typically safe, but Asian versions may contain other grains.

Conclusion: Making Safe Choices

To ensure your diet remains gluten-free, remember these key rules: avoid all malt vinegar, understand that the distillation process makes distilled white vinegar safe, and exercise caution with blended or flavored vinegars. When a label lists simply "vinegar," it's best to verify its source unless the product is certified gluten-free. Relying on trusted certification marks and familiar, single-ingredient brands is the most reliable strategy. By staying vigilant and understanding the basics of vinegar production, you can continue to enjoy a wide variety of delicious, gluten-free foods.

For more information on gluten-free living and ingredient safety, visit the official website of the Celiac Disease Foundation: celiac.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, malt vinegar is not gluten-free. It is made from malted barley, a gluten-containing grain, and is not distilled, so it contains gluten and should be avoided by those on a gluten-free diet.

Yes, distilled white vinegar is gluten-free. The distillation process effectively removes the gluten protein, making the final product safe, even if the vinegar was originally made from a gluten-containing grain like wheat.

Yes, pure apple cider vinegar is naturally gluten-free. It is produced through the fermentation of apple juice, which does not contain gluten.

Traditional balsamic vinegar, made from cooked grape must, is gluten-free. However, cheaper imitations or balsamic glazes might contain gluten-containing additives, so always check the label carefully.

If a product is certified gluten-free, the term "vinegar" is safe. If not, the term could refer to malt vinegar. In the U.S., a generic "vinegar" often implies cider vinegar, but it is best to contact the manufacturer if unsure.

Yes, while the distillation process removes gluten, some individuals with extremely high sensitivity to trace amounts or other components may still react. If you have concerns, consider opting for naturally gluten-free vinegars like apple cider vinegar.

Flavored or seasoned vinegars require caution. They may contain additional ingredients or flavorings that are not gluten-free, such as malt. Always read the ingredient list thoroughly.