Nutrition Diet: Does Hunt's Tomato Sauce Have Gluten in It?

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the brand and ingredient lists for standard products, Hunt's basic tomato sauce does not contain gluten-containing ingredients. However, it is a crucial step for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity to understand exactly does Hunt's tomato sauce have gluten in it? by reading specific labels, as some specific products, especially flavored pasta sauces, in the Hunt's range do contain wheat.

Quick Summary

While standard Hunt's tomato sauce is made without gluten-containing ingredients, some of the brand's other products, such as certain pasta sauces, do contain wheat. Consumers must carefully check each product label.

Key Points

Standard Sauce is Gluten-Free: Basic Hunt's tomato sauce and paste typically contain no gluten ingredients based on their listed components.
Flavored Sauces May Contain Gluten: Some Hunt's flavored pasta sauces, like meat-flavored versions, explicitly contain wheat and are not gluten-free.
Always Read the Label: Do not assume all Hunt's products are gluten-free; always check the specific product's ingredient list for wheat and other gluten sources.
Company Allergy Disclosure: Hunt's manufacturer, Conagra, generally declares major allergens like wheat on their ingredient lists, aiding consumer safety.
Celiac Cross-Contamination: Individuals with celiac disease should be aware of potential cross-contamination in manufacturing, though the risk is higher for products produced with gluten ingredients.
Variety in Product Lines: The gluten status of one Hunt's item, such as plain tomato sauce, does not guarantee the status of another item in a different product line.
Consider Alternatives: Other brands explicitly label their tomato sauces as certified gluten-free, offering an extra layer of reassurance.

Understanding the Gluten Status of Hunt's Tomato Products

Navigating a gluten-free diet requires careful label reading, and when it comes to a brand as widely available as Hunt's, it's essential to understand which products are safe. The key distinction lies between the brand's basic tomato sauce and its more complex, flavored pasta sauces. The good news for those with gluten sensitivities is that the most basic versions of Hunt's tomato sauce are free of gluten ingredients. However, assuming this applies to all Hunt's products is a mistake that could lead to accidental gluten exposure.

Key Ingredient Analysis for Plain Tomato Sauce

The fundamental ingredients in Hunt's plain tomato sauce are naturally gluten-free. A typical ingredient list includes vine-ripened tomatoes, tomato puree, water, salt, and spices like onion powder and garlic powder. The manufacturer, Conagra Brands, has also stated that they disclose major allergens like wheat in their ingredient statements. Since no gluten-containing items like wheat, rye, or barley are added, the standard tomato sauce is a safe choice. Similarly, Hunt's also offers versions like 'No Salt Added Tomato Sauce' which also do not contain gluten ingredients.

Common ingredients in Hunt's basic tomato sauce:

Tomato puree (water, tomato paste)
Water
Salt
Citric Acid
Onion Powder
Garlic Powder
Red Pepper

The Critical Difference: Flavored Pasta Sauces

The danger zone for gluten-free consumers lies in Hunt's flavored pasta sauces. These products are often made with additional ingredients that can include gluten-containing derivatives. For example, a Hunt's Premium Meat Flavored Pasta Sauce contains "Hydrolyzed Soy, Corn and Wheat Proteins," which is a clear indicator of wheat and, therefore, gluten content. These thickening agents or flavor enhancers are typically absent from the simpler, basic tomato sauce. This is why reading the specific product label is the single most important step for anyone on a strict gluten-free diet.

How to Safely Shop for Hunt's Products

For those managing a gluten-free lifestyle, taking a few precautions at the grocery store can prevent issues.

Read the label thoroughly: Don't rely on the brand name alone. The ingredient list is the most accurate source of information. Look for wheat, barley, or rye in the ingredients.
Check for a Certified Gluten-Free Label: While standard sauce is gluten-free, a 'Certified Gluten-Free' label provides a higher level of assurance, especially regarding potential cross-contamination. Some products, like certain diced tomatoes, may carry this label.
Be Mindful of 'Natural Flavors': In the past, 'natural flavors' could potentially contain gluten derivatives. However, Conagra has indicated they will disclose wheat if present in these flavors. Still, if you have a severe allergy, it's wise to be cautious or contact the company directly.

Comparison of Hunt's Tomato Products (Gluten Content)


Feature	Hunt's Basic Tomato Sauce	Hunt's Flavored Pasta Sauce (e.g., Meat Flavored)
Contains Gluten?	No, typically contains no gluten ingredients.	Yes, some varieties explicitly contain wheat.
Ingredients	Tomatoes, water, salt, spices (onion/garlic powder).	Tomatoes, water, salt, corn syrup, hydrolyzed proteins (including wheat), and other flavorings.
Label Reading	Relatively straightforward; ingredients are simple.	Requires careful reading to spot wheat-derived ingredients.
Cross-Contamination	Potential for cross-contamination exists, so those with celiac should be aware.	Potential for cross-contamination is higher given the presence of wheat on the production line.
Safety for Celiacs	Generally considered safe, but vigilance for cross-contamination is recommended.	Not safe; must be avoided due to known gluten content.

Navigating a Gluten-Free Nutrition Diet

Building a healthy gluten-free nutrition diet extends beyond just choosing the right sauces. Focus on a wide variety of naturally gluten-free foods.

Grains and Starches: Choose safe alternatives like quinoa, rice, corn, buckwheat, and gluten-free oats.
Fruits and Vegetables: Incorporate fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables, as they are naturally gluten-free and packed with essential nutrients.
Proteins: Select lean meats, poultry, fish, and legumes. Be mindful of marinated or processed meats, which can contain hidden gluten.
Dairy: Most dairy products are gluten-free, but it's important to check labels on items like flavored yogurts or processed cheese products.
Sauces and Dressings: While Hunt's basic tomato sauce is safe, always double-check all other condiments, sauces, and dressings, as gluten can be a common thickening agent.

It is also beneficial to explore other brands. Many companies now specifically label their products gluten-free, making the choice much easier. For instance, Muir Glen and Amy's offer certified gluten-free tomato sauce options. Some grocery stores, like Aldi, also have store-brand gluten-free spaghetti sauces.

Conclusion: Does Hunt's Tomato Sauce Have Gluten in It?

So, does Hunt's tomato sauce have gluten in it? The answer is that while the basic, unflavored varieties of Hunt's tomato sauce and paste do not contain gluten ingredients, consumers must be cautious. The presence of wheat in other products, particularly some flavored pasta sauces, makes diligent label-reading essential for anyone on a gluten-free diet. The best practice is to always check the ingredient list of the specific Hunt's product you purchase. This vigilance ensures you can safely enjoy meals while avoiding gluten exposure.

For additional guidance on gluten-free living, you can refer to authoritative sources like the Celiac Disease Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Hunt's plain tomato sauce is generally considered safe for someone with celiac disease, as its ingredients do not contain gluten. However, those with severe sensitivities should be aware of potential cross-contamination risks and may prefer a certified gluten-free brand.

You should avoid any of Hunt's pasta sauces that list wheat or wheat-derived ingredients in the ingredient list. For example, some meat-flavored pasta sauces contain 'hydrolyzed wheat proteins'.

Some varieties of Hunt's pasta sauce do contain gluten. It's crucial to check the ingredient list on each specific jar or can, as some pasta sauces, particularly those with meat or other flavors, include wheat.

Hunt's basic tomato sauce is made with naturally gluten-free ingredients. In contrast, some of Hunt's pasta sauces include additional components, such as hydrolyzed wheat proteins for thickening or flavoring, which contain gluten.

The most reliable method is to read the ingredient list on the product label. Check for wheat, barley, or rye. Additionally, look for a 'Certified Gluten-Free' label for the highest level of assurance.

Yes, for individuals with high sensitivity or celiac disease, there is a risk of cross-contamination, especially for products not explicitly labeled certified gluten-free and processed in facilities that also handle wheat.

No. While fresh tomatoes are naturally gluten-free, some processed tomato products can contain gluten from added seasonings, thickeners, or flavors. Always check the ingredient list on all processed tomato items.

The 100% Natural Tomato Sauce variety is made without gluten ingredients. Like other basic sauces, it's generally considered safe, but checking the label for recent changes or specific ingredient additions is always recommended.