Is Open Pit Barbecue Gluten-Free? An Essential Guide

December 5, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the manufacturer, the traditional Open Pit Original Barbecue Sauce is considered gluten-free, but other flavors are not. This makes knowing the specific flavor profile essential when determining if Open Pit barbecue is gluten-free for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

This guide examines the gluten-free status of different Open Pit BBQ sauce flavors, identifies common hidden gluten sources in barbecue, and provides essential precautions for avoiding cross-contamination while grilling.

Key Points

Open Pit Original is Generally Safe: According to the manufacturer, the Traditional Original flavor of Open Pit barbecue sauce is considered gluten-free.
Check Other Flavors Carefully: Not all Open Pit products are gluten-free; the Thick & Tangy sauce contains gluten from soy sauce.
Read All Labels: Product formulations can change, so it is vital to always read the ingredient list and check for 'gluten-free' labeling on every bottle.
Prevent Cross-Contamination: In a shared grilling environment, use separate utensils, plates, and a designated cooking area to avoid transferring gluten.
DIY is Safest: For complete peace of mind, making a homemade barbecue sauce using certified gluten-free ingredients eliminates all risks associated with processed sauces.

Navigating Open Pit's Gluten-Free Status

For many, summer grilling is synonymous with Open Pit barbecue sauce, a classic staple for burgers, ribs, and chicken. However, for individuals on a gluten-free diet, a simple ingredient check is not enough. The status of Open Pit sauce depends heavily on the specific flavor, and a key difference lies in the ingredients used. The manufacturer confirmed that the Traditional Original is gluten-free, while the Thick & Tangy variety is not, as it contains soy sauce, a common source of hidden gluten. For any other flavors, the company recommends reviewing the ingredient list on the package, as recipes can change.

The Importance of Reading Labels

Even with the manufacturer's guidance, label scrutiny is paramount. While 'gluten-free' labeling is helpful, not all products are certified, which is a key distinction for individuals with celiac disease. Common ingredients in BBQ sauce can be problematic. While Open Pit Original's ingredient list includes hydrolyzed corn protein and hydrolyzed soy protein, these are typically safe for gluten-free diets. However, other flavor variations might include modified food starch, malt vinegar, or certain spices that could be derived from gluten-containing grains. Always check for a 'gluten-free' certification or label to be sure.

Understanding Cross-Contamination Risks

Beyond the ingredients in the bottle, cross-contamination is a serious concern for anyone following a strict gluten-free diet, especially in a shared barbecue setting. A family cookout might see shared utensils, marinades, and surfaces, any of which could transfer gluten. Here are some key areas of risk:

Marinades and basting brushes: Never use a marinade that has been in contact with raw, non-gluten-free meat on cooked meat, as it will be contaminated. Use a separate, clean basting brush for each sauce.
Grill surfaces: If a grill is used for both gluten and non-gluten-free foods, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned or a separate designated area must be used. A grill mat can be a great way to create a dedicated, safe cooking space.
Serving platters and utensils: Using the same plate for raw, gluten-marinated meat and cooked, gluten-free meat is a primary route for cross-contamination. Use completely separate sets of tongs, forks, and platters for raw and cooked foods.
Condiments: Shared condiment bottles can also be a risk. A contaminated knife or spoon dipped into a jar can spread gluten to the entire contents. Use dedicated squeeze bottles or single-serving portions.

Comparison of Open Pit and Common Gluten-Free Alternatives

To help navigate your barbecue choices, here is a comparison of Open Pit sauces versus some popular gluten-free alternatives. This table highlights key considerations beyond just the gluten status.


Feature	Open Pit Original	Open Pit Thick & Tangy	Bone Suckin' Sauce	DIY Homemade Sauce
Gluten-Free Status	Generally considered safe, but confirm label	Contains Gluten (soy sauce)	Labeled gluten-free	100% controllable
Allergen Control	May contain soy	Contains soy	Check specific product, often soy-free	Full control over all ingredients
Convenience	Readily available at most grocery stores	Readily available	May require specialty store or online order	Requires preparation time and ingredients
Cross-Contamination Risk	Low, if kept separate	High, contains gluten	Low, if handled safely	None, if prepared in a gluten-free kitchen
Taste Profile	Classic, tangy, smoky flavor	Thicker, sweeter profile	Often includes brown sugar, paprika, and apple cider vinegar	Customizable to personal preference

Creating Your Own Gluten-Free Barbecue

For the ultimate control, making your own gluten-free barbecue sauce is a great option. Many recipes are naturally gluten-free or can be easily adapted by using certified gluten-free ingredients. Key substitutions include using tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensuring any liquid smoke or other additives are from a gluten-free source. A homemade sauce guarantees both delicious flavor and safety for those with sensitivities. Remember to use separate, clean utensils and pots throughout the process.

Conclusion

While the Open Pit Traditional Original Barbecue Sauce is generally considered gluten-free based on current information, caution is always necessary. The gluten-free status of other Open Pit flavors varies, with the Thick & Tangy version explicitly containing gluten. For those with celiac disease or high sensitivity, the risk of cross-contamination during preparation and grilling is a significant concern that must be managed through careful handling and dedicated equipment. By reading labels, asking questions, and taking proactive steps to prevent cross-contamination, you can enjoy all the classic flavors of barbecue safely and confidently.

Visit The GFB's guide to gluten-free foods for more information on safe products.

Frequently Asked Questions

The manufacturer has confirmed that the Traditional Original Open Pit Barbecue Sauce is gluten-free. The gluten-free status of other flavors, however, must be verified by checking the specific product label, as ingredients can change.

The Thick & Tangy variety of Open Pit sauce contains soy sauce as an ingredient, which is a common source of gluten. This makes it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Hidden gluten can appear in ingredients like soy sauce, malt vinegar, and certain modified food starches. Always scrutinize the ingredient list for potential gluten-containing additives.

To prevent cross-contamination, use separate marinades and basting brushes for gluten-free items. Clean the grill thoroughly before use or lay down a designated grill mat for gluten-free food.

No, you should never reuse a marinade that has been in contact with raw, gluten-containing meat on cooked food. This is a major risk for cross-contamination.

While the manufacturer confirms the Original flavor is gluten-free, it is always best practice to check the label for certification, especially if you have celiac disease. Some sources note potential cross-contamination risks during processing.

Many brands offer explicitly labeled gluten-free barbecue sauces, such as Bone Suckin' Sauce. Creating a homemade sauce with trusted ingredients is another excellent option for maximum safety and customization.