Is Kroger Block Cheese Gluten-Free? A Guide to Safe Snacking

December 5, 2025 •

3 min read

Most natural, unprocessed cheeses, including block cheese, are inherently gluten-free. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, the good news is that Kroger's block cheese varieties are generally considered gluten-free. However, vigilance is key, and understanding ingredient variations is crucial for a safe diet.

Quick Summary

Kroger block cheeses, including cheddar and mozzarella, are typically safe for gluten-free diets as they contain no gluten ingredients. Always check ingredient lists for potential additives in flavored or processed varieties. Cross-contamination risks at the deli counter should also be considered by those with severe gluten allergies.

Key Points

Naturally Gluten-Free: Most Kroger block cheeses, like cheddar and mozzarella, are inherently gluten-free as they are made from milk, cultures, salt, and enzymes.
Ingredient Vigilance is Key: While block cheese is generally safe, always check labels on flavored or processed cheese products, as they may contain hidden gluten.
Deli Counter Caution: Purchasing cheese from the deli carries a risk of cross-contamination from shared slicers; it is safer to buy pre-packaged block cheese.
Not All Kroger Cheese is Safe: Some varieties, like Kroger cottage cheese, may not be gluten-free due to manufacturing processes, so checking each product is necessary.
Prioritize Simple Products: Stick to plain, non-flavored block cheese to minimize the risk of encountering gluten-containing additives.
Read Every Label: Because ingredients can change, the safest practice is to read the ingredient list on every package, every time, to ensure safety.

Is Kroger Block Cheese Gluten-Free?

For anyone on a gluten-free diet, deciphering ingredient lists is a constant necessity. While natural cheese is typically safe, additives and manufacturing processes can introduce hidden gluten, causing concern for those with sensitivities. When it comes to Kroger's block cheese, the answer is overwhelmingly positive, with most natural block varieties being safe. However, navigating the dairy aisle requires attention to detail, especially when considering processed or flavored options.

The Purity of Kroger Block Cheese Ingredients

The fundamental components of natural block cheese—milk, cultures, salt, and enzymes—are all naturally gluten-free. Kroger's own product listings for block cheeses, such as their mild or sharp cheddar, reflect this simple, pure ingredient profile. The primary risk of gluten contamination arises from additives in other cheese types, such as the anti-caking agents found in some shredded cheeses or flavorings in processed cheese products.

Unlike some shredded cheeses that may use wheat-based starches to prevent clumping, Kroger's block cheeses typically do not contain these additives. This makes them a more reliable choice for celiac sufferers or those with strict dietary restrictions. For instance, Kroger's shredded cheeses often use corn starch, but the safest bet remains the unadulterated block.

Deli vs. Pre-Packaged: Understanding Cross-Contamination Risks

While the pre-packaged Kroger block cheese is generally safe, the deli counter presents a different scenario. Even if the cheese itself is gluten-free, the shared slicing equipment can pose a significant risk of cross-contamination. Many delis use the same slicers for gluten-containing meats and cheeses, which can be hazardous for those with celiac disease. Kroger has, in the past, provided information on managing this risk, suggesting customers speak to the deli manager about having their cheese sliced first thing in the morning or after the equipment has been thoroughly cleaned.

Navigating Other Kroger Cheese Products

It's important to recognize that not all Kroger cheese products are created equal. This is where vigilant label-reading becomes paramount. While block cheese is a safe bet, other dairy items might not be. For example, a representative on Celiac.com forums noted that Kroger's cottage cheese is not gluten-free because gluten is used to feed the cultures. Similarly, seasoned cheeses or dips may contain modified food starch or other gluten-based additives.

This is why a "read every label, every time" policy is essential for anyone with gluten sensitivity. Ingredients can change, and a product that was once safe may be reformulated. When in doubt, checking the ingredient list for common gluten sources like wheat, barley, rye, malt, or modified food starch is the best course of action.

Kroger Block Cheese vs. Shredded Cheese: A Comparison


Feature	Kroger Block Cheese	Kroger Shredded Cheese	Why it Matters for GF Diet
Primary Ingredients	Milk, cultures, salt, enzymes	Milk, cultures, salt, enzymes, anti-caking agents	Block cheese contains fewer potential sources of hidden gluten additives.
Risk of Additives	Very low	Higher, due to starches added to prevent clumping	Anti-caking agents can sometimes contain wheat-based ingredients.
Cross-Contamination Risk	Low (pre-packaged); High (deli-sliced)	Low (pre-packaged); N/A (usually not deli-sliced)	Deli slicers used for cheese may also be used for gluten-containing products.
Safety for Celiacs	Generally considered safe, though always check labels	Check labels carefully, and read ingredient statements	Block cheese offers the most straightforward, pure ingredient list.

How to Safely Shop for Kroger Cheese

Read the Ingredients: Always check the ingredient list on the back of the package. Look for milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes.
Avoid Processed Varieties: Exercise caution with processed cheese spreads, flavored cheeses, or cheese alternatives, which are more likely to contain gluten additives.
Be Mindful of the Deli: If purchasing deli-sliced cheese, ask the manager about their cross-contamination procedures.
Utilize Apps and Resources: Use gluten-free scanner apps or consult online forums for up-to-date information on specific products.
Look for Certification: While not all Kroger products are certified, the 'Simple Truth' organic line often carries gluten-free markings.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the vast majority of Kroger's block cheese varieties are a safe and delicious option for those following a gluten-free diet. Their simple, natural ingredient list minimizes the risk of hidden gluten. However, due diligence is always required, especially with more processed items or deli counter purchases. By consistently reading ingredient labels and being aware of potential cross-contamination, individuals can enjoy Kroger block cheese with confidence. For further guidance and resources on eating gluten-free, a visit to a trusted resource like the Celiac Disease Foundation can provide valuable insights into managing a gluten-free lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Kroger mild cheddar block cheese is generally gluten-free, as its ingredient list of pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes contains no gluten-containing items.

Yes, people with celiac disease can typically eat Kroger block cheese, provided they purchase the pre-packaged varieties and always check the ingredient label to ensure no changes have been made.

For pre-packaged block cheese, the risk of cross-contamination is low. However, cheese sliced at the deli counter could be cross-contaminated by shared equipment used for gluten-containing products.

No, not all Kroger dairy products are gluten-free. While many are, some items like certain flavored products or cottage cheese have been reported to contain gluten.

In natural block cheese, modified food starch is not an issue. However, in processed cheese products, shredded cheeses, or certain dips, you should check the label to ensure the starch is not wheat-based.

Block cheese is safer because it doesn't require anti-caking agents, which are often used in shredded cheese to prevent clumping. These agents can sometimes contain gluten.

While Kroger may not explicitly label all its block cheese, many of its simple, natural cheeses are considered gluten-free based on their ingredient list. The 'Simple Truth' brand is more likely to feature explicit gluten-free certification.