Is Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese gluten-free?

October 21, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Walmart and product labels, Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese is indeed gluten-free. This is reassuring news for individuals navigating a gluten-free diet, but it's important to understand the specifics of why this processed cheese is safe and how to evaluate other similar products.

Quick Summary

Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese is a gluten-free product, confirmed by its ingredient list and official product information. Additives like potato starch, used to prevent caking, are gluten-free, unlike some starches found in other processed foods.

Key Points

Confirmed Gluten-Free: Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese is officially listed as a gluten-free product on its packaging and by Walmart.
Safe Anti-Caking Agents: The cheese uses gluten-free agents like potato starch and powdered cellulose to prevent clumping, not wheat flour.
Always Read Labels: While this specific product is safe, it is crucial to always read the ingredient list and check for 'gluten-free' labeling on all processed cheeses, as some brands or types may differ.
Natural Cheese is Safer: Natural, unprocessed block cheese is inherently gluten-free, eliminating the risk of gluten in additives.
Be Mindful of Processing: Some processed cheese spreads, powders, or flavored varieties may contain gluten, so vigilance is required beyond just the shredded type.
Cross-Contamination Awareness: For those with severe sensitivity, consider shredding your own block cheese to eliminate any risk of cross-contamination from shared factory equipment.

Is Great Value Mild Cheddar Shredded Cheese Gluten-Free?

The short answer is yes, Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese is gluten-free. For individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those following a gluten-free lifestyle, this is an important fact. The reason lies in its ingredients and the manufacturing process. While most natural cheeses are inherently gluten-free, processed and shredded varieties can sometimes pose a risk due to added ingredients.

The Details Behind Great Value's Gluten-Free Claim

Unlike some processed cheese products that might use a wheat-based flour or starch to prevent the shreds from clumping, Great Value explicitly lists gluten-free ingredients for this purpose. The key is the anti-caking agent. In Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese, the anti-caking blend typically includes potato starch and powdered cellulose. Both of these ingredients are naturally gluten-free and are safe for a gluten-free diet. The manufacturer's labeling often includes a 'gluten-free' claim directly on the packaging, providing an extra layer of assurance for consumers.

Why Are Some Shredded Cheeses a Concern?

The myth that all shredded cheeses contain gluten-based flour is a common one, but it is largely outdated. However, it is based on a real risk. Historically, some producers might have used wheat-derived starches. In modern food manufacturing, this is rare, but it highlights why reading labels is crucial. Certain processed cheeses, especially spreads or powders, may also contain thickeners or flavorings derived from gluten grains.

Comparing Gluten-Free Shredded Cheeses


Feature	Great Value Mild Cheddar Shredded	Store-Brand Competitor (Hypothetical)	DIY Shredded Block Cheese
Gluten-Free Status	Confirmed gluten-free per label and ingredients.	Check label carefully. May contain anti-caking agents.	Inherently gluten-free, provided it is a natural, unflavored cheese.
Anti-Caking Agent	Potato Starch, Powdered Cellulose.	Varies by brand. Could be cornstarch, tapioca starch, or other starches.	None needed.
Processing	Factory shredded and pre-packaged with anti-caking agents.	Varies by manufacturer.	Home shredded from a block of cheese.
Convenience	High. Ready to use out of the bag.	High. Ready to use.	Low. Requires manual grating.
Risk of Cross-Contamination	Low risk for this product, as it is labeled gluten-free.	Varies by brand and manufacturing facility.	Very low, if proper kitchen hygiene is maintained.

How to Safely Choose Shredded Cheese

For anyone on a gluten-free diet, the most reliable strategy is always to check the product label. Look for a 'gluten-free' certification or label, which indicates the product meets the FDA's standard of less than 20 parts per million of gluten. If a product isn't explicitly labeled, review the ingredient list for any mention of wheat, barley, rye, or modified food starch from wheat. In the case of Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese, the label provides clear, safe information.

Conclusion

Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese is a safe and convenient option for those living a gluten-free lifestyle. The brand's use of gluten-free anti-caking agents like potato starch and powdered cellulose, along with its clear labeling, removes any uncertainty. While most natural, unprocessed cheeses are inherently gluten-free, it is always best practice to check the labels of processed or pre-shredded cheese varieties to confirm their safety. This diligence ensures you can enjoy your favorite cheese dishes without concern for gluten contamination. To learn more about living a gluten-free life, resources like the National Celiac Association provide comprehensive information.

Frequently Asked Questions

While Great Value Mild cheddar shredded cheese is confirmed to be gluten-free, it is always recommended to check the label on other varieties, such as flavored or fat-free options, to confirm their specific ingredients and processing.

Great Value uses a gluten-free anti-caking blend, which typically includes potato starch and powdered cellulose, to prevent its shredded cheese from sticking together.

It is important because some shredded cheese products, particularly older or different brands, might contain wheat-based starches or other gluten-containing additives as anti-caking agents or thickeners.

Yes. The 'gluten-free' label indicates that the product meets the FDA standard of containing less than 20 parts per million of gluten, making it safe for individuals with celiac disease.

Yes, natural, unflavored cheddar cheese is inherently gluten-free, as it is made from milk, salt, and enzymes, none of which contain gluten.

For most people, Great Value's own labeling and practices are sufficient. However, those with a high sensitivity should always be aware that any food processed in a facility that also handles gluten products has a minimal risk, though certified labels minimize this.

The safest option is a natural, unflavored block of cheese, which is free from any additives and can be freshly shredded at home to eliminate all concerns about anti-caking agents.