Is French's Gravy Mix Gluten-Free? What Gluten-Sensitive Individuals Need to Know

November 9, 2025 •

2 min read

Multiple product listings for French's gravy mix, including both the brown and turkey varieties, clearly indicate the presence of wheat-based ingredients. Therefore, French's gravy mix is not gluten-free and is unsafe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Quick Summary

French's gravy mix contains wheat-derived ingredients, making it unsuitable for a gluten-free diet. A review of product labels and safe alternatives is essential for preventing gluten exposure.

Key Points

Contains Wheat: French's gravy mix is not gluten-free because its ingredients include enriched wheat flour and/or hydrolyzed wheat protein.
Unsafe for Celiac Disease: Due to its wheat content, French's gravy mix is unsafe for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, as even small amounts can cause harm.
Always Check Labels: Many processed foods can contain hidden gluten. Always check the ingredient list for wheat, barley, or rye, and look for specific gluten-free certification labels.
Risk of Cross-Contamination: Using products with gluten in a shared kitchen environment can lead to cross-contamination, which must be strictly avoided when preparing food for a gluten-free diet.
Safe Alternatives Are Available: Reliable gluten-free alternatives include certified store-bought mixes or homemade gravy using naturally gluten-free thickeners like cornstarch or sweet rice flour.

Why French's Gravy Mix is Not Gluten-Free

The primary reason French's gravy mixes are not gluten-free is the inclusion of wheat-based ingredients. Product listings for French's Brown Gravy Mix show ENRICHED WHEAT FLOUR and WHEAT STARCH, along with HYDROLYZED SOY, CORN AND WHEAT PROTEIN. Similarly, French's Gravy Mix for Turkey has been noted to contain hydrolyzed vegetable protein (corn, wheat, soy). The presence of wheat, even in hydrolyzed form, means the product contains gluten and is not safe for a gluten-free diet. French's allergen statements also list "Wheat" and "Gluten containing grains".

The Critical Difference Between Ingredients

Even trace amounts of gluten can harm individuals with celiac disease. The FDA defines gluten-free as less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Products with intentionally added wheat, like French's gravy mixes, do not meet this standard.

Comparison Table: French's vs. Homemade Gluten-Free Gravy


Feature	French's Gravy Mix	Homemade GF Gravy
Contains Gluten?	Yes, contains wheat flour and/or wheat protein.	No, uses naturally gluten-free thickeners.
Key Thickeners	Wheat flour, modified food starch.	Cornstarch, sweet rice flour, or GF flour blend.
Celiac-Safe?	No, poses a significant health risk due to gluten content.	Yes, if prepared with certified gluten-free ingredients and cross-contamination is avoided.
Ease of Preparation	Very easy, just add water.	Slightly more involved, requires combining fat and thickener first.
Ingredient Control	Limited control over ingredients.	Full control over all ingredients, including seasoning.

Safe and Delicious Gluten-Free Gravy Alternatives

Many safe, gluten-free gravy alternatives exist. Homemade gravy allows full ingredient control:

Cornstarch-Based Gravy: Use a cornstarch and cold water slurry whisked into hot broth or drippings.
Sweet Rice Flour: Provides a smooth, velvety texture. A roux with sweet rice flour and fat works well.
Commercial Gluten-Free Mixes: Look for certified gluten-free labels. Brands like Maggi offer GF options in some regions.
Checking Broth Labels: Ensure broths and stocks are gluten-free, as some contain hidden gluten. Brands like Swanson and College Inn often have labeled GF options.

Mitigating Cross-Contamination

Preventing cross-contamination is vital for those with celiac disease:

Separate Utensils: Use dedicated, clean utensils, boards, and pans for gluten-free food.
Clean Surfaces: Thoroughly wash cooking surfaces.
Store Separately: Keep gluten-free items on higher shelves away from gluten products.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety Over Convenience

French's gravy mix is not gluten-free and unsafe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity due to its wheat content. Opt for certified gluten-free alternatives or homemade gravy using thickeners like cornstarch or sweet rice flour. Always read labels and follow cross-contamination protocols for safety. Refer to the FDA's official guide on gluten-free labeling for more information.

The Verdict on French's Gravy

French's gravy mix is not gluten-free as confirmed by its ingredients. It is best for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to avoid this product and choose safe, certified alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, French's brown gravy mix is not gluten-free. Ingredients listed on product pages confirm the presence of enriched wheat flour and hydrolyzed wheat protein, making it unsuitable for a gluten-free diet.

Yes, French's turkey gravy mix contains gluten. Product information, including allergen statements from the manufacturer, confirms the presence of wheat and other gluten-containing grains.

Safe alternatives include making homemade gravy using naturally gluten-free thickeners like cornstarch or sweet rice flour, or purchasing a store-bought mix that is explicitly labeled and certified gluten-free.

Yes, if you have celiac disease or a serious gluten sensitivity, you can become ill from cross-contamination. Trace amounts of gluten transferring from the mix to your food or cooking surfaces are enough to trigger an immune response.

You can use a variety of gluten-free thickeners. Common choices include a cornstarch slurry, sweet rice flour, or a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

No, not all store-bought gravy mixes are unsafe, but many popular brands contain gluten. You must read labels carefully and look for products that are specifically certified as gluten-free.

No, if a product contains an ingredient derived from a gluten-containing grain like wheat that has not been processed to remove gluten below 20 ppm, it cannot be labeled gluten-free. Hydrolyzed wheat protein is still a wheat-derived ingredient and contains gluten.