Is Herbes de Provence Gluten-Free? A Guide for Safe Seasoning

December 11, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 3.1 million Americans follow a gluten-free diet, a figure that has tripled over the last decade. For those managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, confirming the safety of everyday ingredients like herbes de Provence is essential. So, is herbes de Provence gluten-free? The simple answer is yes, the individual herbs are naturally gluten-free, but potential cross-contamination makes careful sourcing vital.

Quick Summary

This article explores the inherent gluten-free nature of herbes de Provence ingredients and the critical importance of avoiding cross-contamination. It covers how to read labels, choose safe brands, and even create a homemade blend, ensuring this classic seasoning is safe for any gluten-free diet.

Key Points

Naturally Gluten-Free: The individual herbs in herbes de Provence, such as thyme, rosemary, and savory, are naturally free of gluten.
Cross-Contamination Risk: The primary gluten risk comes from the possibility of cross-contamination in manufacturing facilities that also process gluten-containing products.
Certified Label is Key: For store-bought blends, always look for a 'Certified Gluten-Free' label, which guarantees the product meets strict safety standards.
DIY is the Safest Option: Making your own herbes de Provence blend at home from individually sourced, certified gluten-free herbs eliminates any cross-contamination concerns.
Read All Labels: Carefully check the ingredient list for any unexpected additives or anti-caking agents that could contain gluten, though this is less common in simple herb blends.
Homemade Benefits: A DIY blend allows for fresh ingredients, full customization, and maximum control over your diet.

The Core Ingredients of Herbes de Provence

At its heart, herbes de Provence is a simple, rustic blend of dried herbs that naturally contains no gluten-based ingredients. The standard mix typically includes: thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, and oregano. Some variations may also incorporate basil, fennel, or lavender. Since all of these components are herbs from plants, they are inherently gluten-free. For a pure, single-ingredient spice blend, there should be no concern. However, potential issues can arise during processing and packaging.

Potential for Cross-Contamination

While the herbs themselves are safe, the manufacturing and packing process is where gluten can be inadvertently introduced. This is the primary concern for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

Shared Equipment: Many spice manufacturers process multiple products on the same equipment. If gluten-containing seasonings or spice mixes are handled on the same production line, even trace amounts can lead to cross-contamination.
Processing Facilities: The environment where the herbs are dried, ground, and blended can also pose a risk. Dust particles containing gluten from other ingredients can become airborne and settle on equipment or product containers.
Sourcing and Handling: The path from farm to pantry can involve various handlers. If a supplier or distributor also handles gluten-containing items, there is a risk of contamination.

How to Ensure Your Herbes de Provence is Truly Gluten-Free

Navigating the grocery store for safe spices requires vigilance. Here are the key steps to take:

Look for a Certified Gluten-Free Label: This is the most reliable method. A certified label indicates that the product has been tested to meet specific safety standards (typically less than 20 ppm gluten) and is produced in a facility that follows strict procedures to prevent cross-contamination. Reputable brands will often state this clearly on their packaging.
Read the Full Ingredient List: Always check the ingredients to ensure no unexpected additives have been included. While rare, some blended seasonings can contain anti-caking agents or fillers that might contain gluten, though this is less common with a simple herb blend.
Research the Manufacturer: If a product lacks certification, look up the manufacturer. Their website may provide information about their allergen protocols and whether their facilities are dedicated gluten-free or if they have specific cross-contamination prevention measures.
Consider Making Your Own: The safest option is to create your own blend at home. This allows for complete control over every ingredient. Simply purchase individual dried herbs that are clearly labeled and certified gluten-free, then mix them yourself.

Making Your Own Gluten-Free Herbes de Provence

Crafting your own blend is straightforward and guarantees a safe, fresh, and customizable seasoning. You will need a spice grinder and an airtight container for storage.

A Basic Herbes de Provence Recipe

2 tbsp dried thyme
2 tbsp dried savory
2 tbsp dried marjoram
2 tbsp dried rosemary
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp culinary lavender (optional, but adds a floral note)

Instructions

Combine all the dried herbs in a bowl.
For a finer blend, grind the rosemary and any other larger-leafed herbs in a spice grinder before mixing with the rest.
Transfer the finished blend to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place to preserve freshness.

Comparison: Choosing Your Herbes de Provence


Feature	Certified Gluten-Free Product	Homemade Blend
Convenience	High—ready to use instantly.	Lower—requires sourcing individual herbs and mixing.
Cost	Can be more expensive due to certification and branding.	Potentially cheaper in the long run, as you can buy in bulk.
Safety	High, guaranteed under 20 ppm gluten. Relies on the manufacturer's integrity and testing.	Highest, if using verified gluten-free single-ingredient herbs and a clean preparation space.
Freshness	Depends on the brand and how long it has been on the shelf.	Highest—made fresh as needed.
Customization	Low—fixed recipe.	High—can adjust ratios and add other herbs to taste.

Conclusion

In summary, the ingredients of herbes de Provence are naturally free of gluten. However, the risk of cross-contamination during commercial processing and packaging is a significant consideration for individuals with celiac disease or high gluten sensitivity. To ensure complete safety, look for brands with a certified gluten-free label or, for the most control, create your own blend from individually sourced, certified gluten-free herbs. By taking these precautions, you can confidently enjoy the authentic flavors of this classic French seasoning in your cooking without compromising your health.

One resource for homemade gluten-free seasoning recipes is available from Fun Without Gluten, which provides a wide range of options for safe cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all store-bought blends are guaranteed to be gluten-free. While the herbs themselves are naturally free of gluten, there is a risk of cross-contamination during processing. You must look for a 'Certified Gluten-Free' label to ensure a product is safe.

The main risk for gluten contamination is from shared manufacturing equipment. If a manufacturer processes both gluten-containing and gluten-free products on the same lines, gluten particles can transfer to the herbes de Provence blend.

Yes, making your own blend at home is the safest way to ensure it is 100% gluten-free. You just need to buy individual dried herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and savory, that are labeled gluten-free, and mix them yourself.

A classic herbes de Provence blend typically includes dried thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, and oregano. Some modern versions also add basil, fennel, or lavender.

Check the brand's website or the product label. Reputable brands will often provide information about their allergen protocols, whether they are produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility, or if they have cross-contamination prevention measures in place.

Yes, while they share some herbs, herbes de Provence often has a more complex flavor profile, and its inclusion of savory and sometimes lavender gives it a distinct taste. Italian seasoning is also an American invention, while herbes de Provence originates from France.

A 'Certified Gluten-Free' logo, issued by an independent organization, signifies that the product has been rigorously tested and confirmed to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is the standard for safety.