Is Cento Tomato Paste Celiac Safe? Your Gluten-Free Guide

November 13, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, a strict gluten-free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease. Navigating grocery store aisles can be challenging, but many Cento tomato paste products are considered celiac safe, with labeling often indicating they are gluten-free.

Quick Summary

Most Cento tomato paste varieties are naturally gluten-free and labeled as such. Verifying the specific product label is crucial for celiac safety, especially considering manufacturing practices.

Key Points

Cento Products Labeled GF: Many Cento tomato paste products, including the popular tubes and canned versions, are labeled gluten-free and suitable for those with celiac disease.
Simple, Safe Ingredients: The primary ingredients in plain Cento tomato paste—tomatoes and citric acid—are naturally gluten-free.
Verify with the Label: Always check the specific product label for the most up-to-date 'gluten-free' claim and allergen information before purchasing.
Hidden Gluten Risk: Seasoned or flavored tomato products from any brand carry a higher risk of containing hidden gluten and should be avoided unless explicitly labeled safe.
Consider Cross-Contamination: While Cento labels according to FDA rules, those with high sensitivity should be aware of potential cross-contact, although labeled GF products are generally safe.

Is Cento Tomato Paste Gluten-Free?

Yes, Cento's plain tomato paste products, including those in cans and tubes, are widely regarded as gluten-free and are often explicitly labeled to confirm this. The ingredients list for these products confirms a simple composition of tomatoes and citric acid, neither of which contains gluten. For individuals with celiac disease, this makes Cento tomato paste a reliable pantry staple. However, it is essential for celiac patients to always check the most current product label to ensure no changes in ingredients or manufacturing have occurred, and to confirm the product carries a 'gluten-free' claim.

Understanding Cento's Gluten-Free Labeling

Cento Fine Foods has a stated commitment to producing products for various dietary needs, including gluten-free options. For many of their tomato paste items, such as the Cento Tomato Paste In A Tube, the company specifically markets it with a 'gluten-free' attribute. According to celiac advocacy groups like Celiac.com, Cento is one of the brands that goes the extra step to specifically label its products as gluten-free, which indicates they have been tested to contain less than the regulated 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.

What About Cross-Contamination?

Cross-contamination is a significant concern for individuals with celiac disease. While Cento adheres to FDA labeling laws for allergens, the risk of cross-contact during manufacturing can be a worry for some.

To minimize risk:

Look for products that carry a third-party certification seal, like from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), which often requires testing for less than 10 ppm of gluten.
Contact Cento directly with any questions or concerns about specific products or facility practices. Their website provides a channel for product-related inquiries.
Consider the source of the product. Some online forum posts have noted that the absence of a 'gluten-free' label on older can versions, unlike the more consistently labeled tube versions, may indicate a potential change or variance in production protocols.

How to Read the Label for Celiac Safety

Following a systematic approach when reading a food label is key to ensuring safety on a gluten-free diet. Here's a breakdown of how to vet Cento tomato paste:

Look for the 'Gluten-Free' Claim: The most direct indicator is a 'gluten-free' claim or symbol on the packaging.
Inspect the Ingredient List: Review the list to confirm no gluten-containing ingredients like wheat, barley, or rye are present. In the case of plain Cento tomato paste, the ingredients are typically just tomatoes and citric acid.
Check the Allergen Statement: Look for any 'Contains' statement that might list wheat, even if it's not a primary ingredient.
Evaluate Advisory Statements: Note any voluntary 'may contain' or 'processed in a facility with wheat' disclaimers, and decide based on your personal sensitivity and comfort level.

Gluten-Free Status: Cento vs. Other Brands


Brand	Product	Gluten-Free Status	Important Notes
Cento	Tomato Paste (Can)	Labeled Gluten-Free	Plain versions are safe; always check the current can.
Cento	Organic Double Concentrated Tomato Paste (Tube)	Labeled Gluten-Free	Resealable tube and explicitly marked GF.
Contadina	Italian Tomato Paste w/ Seasonings	NOT Gluten-Free	An example of how added ingredients can make a tomato product unsafe.
Red Gold	Tomato Paste	Labeled Gluten-Free	Another brand that explicitly labels its product as GF.
Muir Glen	Tomato Paste	Labeled Gluten-Free	A third brand known for its GF labeling.

Final Verdict for Celiac Patients

For individuals with celiac disease, Cento plain tomato paste in its standard forms is a safe choice, particularly the products that are explicitly labeled gluten-free. The core ingredients are naturally free of gluten, and the company has procedures to address dietary needs. However, the bedrock of a celiac-safe diet is due diligence. Always read the label of the specific Cento product you are purchasing. This includes checking for the 'gluten-free' claim, reviewing the ingredient list for potential hidden sources of gluten, and assessing any advisory statements for cross-contamination risks. By combining Cento's reliable labeling with your own careful verification, you can confidently include their tomato paste in your cooking. The Celiac Disease Foundation offers excellent resources for becoming a savvy label reader and managing your gluten-free diet safely and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cento labels many of its plain tomato paste products as gluten-free, and these have been tested to contain less than 20 ppm of gluten. However, the company advises checking the specific product label for the most accurate and current information, as is best practice for all packaged foods.

Yes, under FDA regulations, a 'gluten-free' label on a packaged food product means it contains less than 20 ppm of gluten, making it safe for most celiac individuals. Cento is listed by Celiac.com as a brand that specifically labels its tomato paste as gluten-free.

No, not all products from Cento are guaranteed celiac-safe, as they have a large line of Italian-style products. It is crucial to read the label of each individual item, particularly for items with added seasonings or flavorings.

While the plain paste is safe, potential risks include changes in manufacturing practices or sourcing, or the remote possibility of cross-contamination in the facility where other products are made. This is why confirming the current label is so important.

Ingredients-wise, they are similar, but packaging and specific manufacturing details may vary. The resealable tube is often more explicitly marked with a 'gluten-free' label, though the can is also considered safe if labeled. Always check the specific product in your hand.

If a Cento product, especially a seasoned sauce, doesn't explicitly state 'gluten-free,' it should be treated with caution by a celiac patient. While the plain versions are naturally gluten-free, the absence of the label means it has not been tested to the same standard.

Cento's official website offers a section on 'Responsibility,' where they detail their approach to dietary needs and labeling. You can also use their 'Product Concern' form to ask specific questions.