Nutrition Diet: Are Ritz Crackers Gluten?

November 9, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide are affected by celiac disease, necessitating a strict gluten-free diet. For those managing this condition or a gluten sensitivity, understanding which foods are safe is critical, and the answer to "Are Ritz crackers gluten?" is a definitive no, as traditional Ritz contain wheat.

Quick Summary

This guide examines the ingredients in traditional Ritz crackers to clarify why they are not gluten-free, explains the importance of checking labels, and suggests several safe alternatives for those following a gluten-free diet.

Key Points

Ritz Crackers Contain Gluten: All standard varieties of Ritz crackers are made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free.
No Official GF Version Exists: The manufacturer, Mondelēz International, does not produce a gluten-free version of Ritz crackers.
Check the Ingredient List: Always read labels carefully; wheat is a primary ingredient in traditional Ritz and is explicitly listed.
Safe Alternatives are Available: Many brands offer certified gluten-free crackers that provide a similar taste and texture, such as Lance, Schär, and Simple Mills.
Be Cautious of Cross-Contamination: For individuals with celiac disease, it is crucial to choose certified gluten-free products to avoid cross-contamination risk.
Homemade Options are an Option: Recipes exist for creating homemade, gluten-free versions of 'Ritz-style' crackers using alternative flours.

The Role of Gluten in a Modern Diet

Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It acts as a binder, holding food together and giving it a chewy texture. For most people, consuming gluten is not an issue. However, for individuals with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, ingesting gluten can lead to severe health problems, including intestinal damage, nutrient deficiencies, and other symptoms. Because gluten is so prevalent in many processed and packaged foods, a person following a gluten-free diet must be vigilant about checking ingredient lists.

Are Ritz Crackers Gluten? The Definitive Answer

Original Ritz crackers are not gluten-free. The primary reason is their main ingredient: enriched wheat flour. The cracker's famous flaky, buttery texture is directly a result of the gluten in the wheat flour. While the cracker may contain other ingredients like soybean oil, sugar, and various seasonings, the presence of wheat flour alone makes it unsuitable for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.

Reading the Ritz Label

When examining the nutrition label for original Ritz crackers, the ingredient list clearly states "UNBLEACHED ENRICHED FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR...)". The ingredient list is the most reliable source for determining if a product contains gluten. Additionally, many varieties of Ritz will also list "CONTAINS: WHEAT" at the bottom of the ingredients list for quick identification.

Is There a Gluten-Free Ritz Version?

As of now, the manufacturer of Ritz, Mondelēz International, does not offer an official gluten-free version of the popular cracker. This means that anyone needing to avoid gluten should not consume any product from the standard Ritz cracker lineup. However, the market for gluten-free products has expanded significantly, and many excellent alternatives exist that capture a similar flavor and texture profile.

A Comparison of Gluten-Free Cracker Alternatives

To help those on a gluten-free diet find a suitable replacement, here is a comparison of some popular alternatives to traditional Ritz crackers. These alternatives often use ingredients like rice flour, almond flour, or other grain-free flours to achieve a similar result.


Cracker Brand	Key Ingredients	Gluten-Free Certification	Texture	Flavor Profile
Schar Table Crackers	Corn starch, rice flour	Certified GF	Flaky, crisp	Neutral, slightly salty
Lance Gluten-Free Original	Rice flour, potato starch	Labeled GF	Buttery, similar to Ritz	Buttery, savory
Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers	Almond flour, tapioca, flax seeds	Certified GF	Thin, crisp	Nutty, hearty
Crunchmaster Multi-Grain Crackers	Brown rice flour, sesame seeds	Certified GF	Thin, crunchy	Savory, with nutty undertones
Blue Diamond Nut-Thins	Rice flour, almond flour	Labeled GF	Light, crisp	Nutty, delicate

Finding Gluten-Free Cracker Alternatives

Finding the right gluten-free cracker depends on your personal taste preferences and any other dietary restrictions. Here are a few options to consider:

For a classic feel: Look for Lance Gluten-Free Original crackers. Many find them to be a close match in texture and flavor to the original Ritz.
For a nut-based option: Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers provide a wholesome, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.
For a versatile cracker: Crunchmaster crackers are excellent for snacking or serving with dips and cheeses.
For the DIY Enthusiast: Many homemade recipes are available online for making your own gluten-free "Ritz-style" crackers using alternative flours like a gluten-free all-purpose blend.

The Importance of Cross-Contamination Awareness

Even when choosing a gluten-free alternative, it is vital to be aware of potential cross-contamination. This is especially important for those with celiac disease. Always check for a gluten-free certification mark on the packaging, as this indicates the product was made in a facility that takes measures to prevent cross-contamination. Brands like Crunchmaster, which are certified gluten-free, provide this added assurance.

Conclusion: Making Informed Dietary Choices

For individuals on a gluten-free diet, knowing that traditional Ritz crackers contain gluten is the first step toward making safe and healthy food choices. Fortunately, the market now offers a wide array of delicious alternatives, from brand-name products to homemade recipes. By carefully reading labels, understanding your options, and being aware of cross-contamination risks, you can easily find a satisfying substitute without compromising your dietary needs. Always prioritize certified products to ensure safety and enjoy your snacks worry-free.

For additional information on celiac disease and managing a gluten-free lifestyle, you can consult reliable sources like the Celiac Disease Foundation or Celiac.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, original Ritz crackers are not gluten-free. They are made with wheat flour, which is a key ingredient containing gluten.

No, the Ritz brand currently does not produce any gluten-free cracker products.

The most reliable way is to check the ingredient list on the package. Look for wheat, barley, or rye, and check for a 'Contains: Wheat' allergen warning. For absolute certainty, look for a gluten-free certification mark.

Several brands offer great gluten-free alternatives, including Lance Gluten-Free Original, Schär Table Crackers, Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers, and Crunchmaster crackers.

No, Ritz crackers are not safe for people with celiac disease because they contain wheat flour and therefore, gluten.

Yes, many other Ritz products, such as Ritz Toasted Chips, also contain wheat and are not gluten-free. It is best to check the ingredients for every individual product.

Yes, you can find many recipes online for making homemade 'Ritz-style' crackers using gluten-free flours to create a similar buttery and flaky texture.