Is BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan Gluten-Free? The Definitive Answer

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the official BelGioioso website, all of their cheeses are naturally gluten-free, which includes their popular shaved Parmesan. This provides a clear and reliable answer for individuals managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivities and looking to enjoy this classic cheese.

Quick Summary

BelGioioso shaved Parmesan is confirmed and labeled gluten-free by the manufacturer, making it a safe choice for those avoiding gluten. This is verified by official company statements and product labeling.

Key Points

Manufacturer Confirmation: BelGioioso officially states that all its cheeses, including shaved Parmesan, are naturally gluten-free.
Natural Ingredients: The base ingredients of Parmesan cheese—milk, salt, and enzymes—are inherently gluten-free.
Safe Anti-Caking Agent: The cellulose used to prevent clumping in BelGioioso's shaved Parmesan is a plant-based additive and is gluten-free.
Clear Labeling: The product packaging is clearly labeled with a gluten-free claim, making it easy for consumers to identify a safe product.
Consistent Production: By confirming all its cheeses are gluten-free, BelGioioso demonstrates a commitment to controlled manufacturing, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.
Reliable for Dietary Needs: For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, BelGioioso shaved Parmesan offers a reliable and safe cheese option.

The Definitive Answer on BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan

For anyone with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those simply adhering to a gluten-free lifestyle, checking the gluten status of every product is a critical step. When it comes to dairy products, especially cheese, the answer is often not as simple as it seems. Fortunately, in the case of BelGioioso shaved Parmesan, the company provides a very clear and reassuring answer: it is gluten-free. This is great news for home cooks who enjoy adding this nutty, savory cheese to their dishes without worry.

Understanding the Gluten-Free Status of BelGioioso Cheeses

BelGioioso Cheese Inc. is a Wisconsin-based company that prides itself on crafting artisan Italian cheeses using natural ingredients. Their commitment to quality extends to catering to specific dietary needs. On their website, under the 'Cheese Claims And Handling Tips' section, they explicitly state that all BelGioioso cheeses are naturally gluten-free. This applies not only to their shaved Parmesan but to their entire product line. This broad, company-wide declaration is a strong indicator of a safe product, as it points to consistent, controlled manufacturing practices that minimize the risk of cross-contamination.

Here’s why you can trust the gluten-free claim from BelGioioso:

Official Confirmation: The company publicly states that its cheeses contain no gluten ingredients.
Transparent Ingredients: The ingredient list for BelGioioso shaved Parmesan includes only cultured milk, salt, enzymes, cellulose (to prevent caking), and natamycin (to protect flavor).
Controlled Environment: By producing their own cheeses in a dedicated facility, BelGioioso maintains oversight of its entire production chain, reducing the chance of unwanted allergens contaminating the final product.

Examining the Ingredients of Shaved Parmesan

Natural Parmesan cheese, at its core, is made from simple, gluten-free ingredients: milk, salt, and rennet (or enzymes). The concern for gluten-sensitive individuals often arises with packaged, pre-shredded, or shaved cheeses. These products frequently include anti-caking agents to prevent the cheese from clumping together in the packaging.

The Role of Cellulose in Shaved Cheese

BelGioioso’s ingredients list for shaved Parmesan includes cellulose. This additive is a plant fiber that is almost universally gluten-free, commonly derived from wood pulp. The use of cellulose is standard practice in the industry and is not a source of gluten. In contrast, some manufacturers of shredded or grated cheese might use starches derived from wheat as a caking agent, which is why reading labels is always crucial. Because BelGioioso specifies cellulose and labels their product gluten-free, you can be confident the anti-caking agent is safe.

Gluten-Free Cheese Comparisons

Not all Parmesan or shredded cheese products are created equal when it comes to gluten-free safety. Here's a comparison to help highlight the differences and confirm the safety of BelGioioso shaved Parmesan:


Feature	BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan	Generic Store Brand Grated Cheese	Block Parmesan (DIY Grated)
Gluten-Free Label	Explicitly stated.	Variable; must check label carefully.	Naturally gluten-free.
Anti-Caking Agent	Cellulose (safe).	Potentially wheat starch or other gluten-based additives.	None.
Cross-Contamination Risk	Low, due to sealed packaging and internal controls.	Potential risk during processing at third-party facilities.	Minimal, if processed in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Convenience	High; ready to use.	High; ready to use.	Low; requires extra time and equipment.

Precautions for Consumers with Celiac Disease

While BelGioioso shaved Parmesan is a safe and reliable option, general precautions for those with celiac disease remain important. Always purchase the pre-packaged, sealed version to ensure a controlled environment. If you buy cheese from a deli counter, there is a risk of cross-contamination from the slicer or other tools used for gluten-containing products. For the highest level of confidence, sticking with the brand's factory-sealed containers is the best practice.

For more information on identifying gluten in various food products, resources like the Beyond Celiac organization are invaluable. Their comprehensive guides can help you navigate the complexities of gluten-free eating and avoid common pitfalls.

Conclusion: Enjoying BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan Safely

In summary, the answer is a resounding yes: BelGioioso shaved Parmesan is gluten-free. Thanks to the company's clear labeling, consistent production processes, and choice of a gluten-free anti-caking agent, it is a safe and flavorful choice for individuals on a gluten-free diet. You can confidently add its rich, nutty flavor to your favorite gluten-free pastas, salads, and soups, knowing that you are making a safe dietary decision. Always remember to check for the official gluten-free label on sealed products to guarantee safety and enjoy your meals without concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all packaged Parmesan or shredded cheeses are guaranteed to be gluten-free. While the cheese itself is naturally gluten-free, some processed versions, especially pre-grated types from other brands, may add starches derived from wheat or other gluten sources as an anti-caking agent.

The cellulose listed in BelGioioso's ingredients is a plant fiber that is gluten-free. It is used as an anti-caking agent and does not pose a risk for individuals with gluten sensitivities.

Yes, you can. BelGioioso publicly and officially confirms that all of its cheeses are naturally gluten-free, reinforcing the validity of the label.

It can, but not in the case of BelGioioso. The risk comes from some manufacturers using wheat-based starches to prevent clumping in pre-packaged products. However, BelGioioso's recipe uses safe, gluten-free alternatives.

For factory-sealed BelGioioso products, the risk is minimal due to controlled manufacturing processes. To be absolutely certain, it's best to stick with sealed packaging rather than purchasing from a deli counter, where shared equipment can pose a risk.

When evaluating other brands, you should be vigilant for terms like 'wheat starch', 'modified food starch from wheat', or other unspecified starches that could contain gluten. Always check the allergen statement as well.

Yes, according to the company, their entire range of cheeses is naturally gluten-free.