Is McCormick Gourmet Organic Italian Seasoning Gluten-Free? An In-Depth Look
For anyone with celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or an allergy, confirming the gluten-free status of everyday kitchen staples is a critical step. Spices, in particular, can be a source of confusion due to potential cross-contamination or hidden gluten-containing ingredients in blends. This guide explores the gluten-free nature of McCormick's popular blend, its ingredients, and what it means for consumers with varying levels of gluten sensitivity.
The All-Clear: Ingredients and Labeling
The ingredient list for McCormick Gourmet Organic Italian Seasoning includes organic marjoram, rosemary, basil, thyme, savory, oregano, and sage. These herbs are naturally gluten-free. McCormick's labeling policy states that any product containing gluten will have the source (like “wheat” or “barley”) declared in the ingredient list. This product does not list any gluten sources, indicating its gluten-free status.
Addressing the Risk of Cross-Contamination
Although the ingredients are gluten-free, some individuals are concerned about potential cross-contamination during manufacturing. McCormick employs Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to minimize this risk. The company utilizes dedicated gluten-free lines for certain certified products and implements thorough cleaning and changeover procedures for shared equipment. Products with a certified "Gluten-Free" claim are validated to ensure compliance. The McCormick Gourmet Organic Italian Seasoning is not specifically certified gluten-free but follows these manufacturing precautions and labeling standards. However, those with extreme sensitivities should still consider the possibility of trace amounts from shared facilities.
Comparison Table: McCormick vs. Certified Gluten-Free Brands
For those seeking greater assurance, comparing McCormick with a certified gluten-free brand is helpful. Certification from organizations like GFCO involves rigorous, third-party testing below the FDA standard of 20 ppm.
| Feature | McCormick Gourmet Italian Seasoning | Spicely Organics Italian Seasoning | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Organic marjoram, rosemary, basil, thyme, savory, oregano, sage | Organic oregano, basil, marjoram, thyme, rosemary, sage | Both use clean, natural ingredients. |
| Gluten Labeling | No gluten ingredients listed, company policy states clear declaration of gluten sources. | All products are certified gluten-free by GFCO. | Spicely offers a higher level of assurance for those with severe sensitivities. |
| Manufacturing Risk | Shared equipment is possible, though with strict cleaning protocols. | Made in a non-shared facility, certified gluten-free. | Spicely eliminates the cross-contamination risk for the highly sensitive. |
| Availability | Very widely available in most grocery stores and online. | Available at specialty stores, Whole Foods, and online through major retailers. | McCormick is generally easier to find. |
Practical Advice for Using McCormick Spices
If you have celiac disease or high gluten sensitivity, take precautions to avoid accidental exposure:
- Always read the label: Check the ingredient list on the bottle at the time of purchase for the most accurate information.
- Use single-ingredient spices: For the highest safety level, use McCormick's single-ingredient spices (e.g., pure ground oregano) which are inherently gluten-free.
- Avoid shared utensils: Use clean, separate measuring spoons and utensils to prevent cross-contamination.
- Store carefully: Keep gluten-free spices separate from others, or label them clearly.
Can you make your own gluten-free Italian seasoning?
Yes, making your own blend from certified gluten-free, single-ingredient dried herbs ensures 100% gluten-free status. A typical recipe includes dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and sage. This provides control over ingredients and eliminates cross-contamination risk.
Conclusion
Based on ingredients and company policy, McCormick Gourmet Organic Italian Seasoning is free from gluten-containing ingredients. It is generally a safe option for those on a gluten-free diet. However, for individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity, the potential for cross-contamination from shared equipment should be considered, despite McCormick's safety protocols. Highly sensitive individuals may prefer certified gluten-free brands or making their own blend. Always check the label and McCormick's website for the most current information.
- Authoritative Link: McCormick Allergen Statement
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is McCormick Gourmet organic Italian seasoning gluten-free?: Yes, the ingredients in McCormick Gourmet organic Italian seasoning are naturally gluten-free and do not contain any wheat, barley, or rye.
- Does McCormick use shared equipment for spices?: Yes, McCormick may use shared equipment for different products, but they follow strict cleaning protocols to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
- Is McCormick Italian seasoning certified gluten-free?: The McCormick Gourmet organic Italian seasoning does not carry a third-party gluten-free certification, but the ingredients themselves are gluten-free.
- What should people with celiac disease do?: Those with celiac disease should always read the ingredient list to confirm no gluten is declared and decide whether the risk of shared equipment is a concern for their sensitivity level.
- Are single-ingredient McCormick spices gluten-free?: Yes, McCormick states that all of their single-ingredient spices, such as pure oregano or basil, are naturally gluten-free.
- How does McCormick label for gluten?: McCormick's policy is to clearly declare any gluten-containing ingredients (e.g., "wheat") in the ingredient statement on the product label.
- Can I make my own Italian seasoning blend?: Yes, combining single, certified gluten-free herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram is a reliable way to make your own blend.
