Understanding What Block Cheese is Gluten-Free

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Celiac Association, natural cheeses, composed of simple ingredients like milk, salt, and enzymes, are inherently gluten-free. However, a gluten-free diet requires careful label reading to know for sure what block cheese is gluten-free, as hidden gluten can appear in surprising places due to additives or processing.

Quick Summary

Most natural block cheeses are gluten-free, while processed and flavored varieties can contain hidden gluten. Safe cheese choices depend on reading labels for additives like modified food starch and being mindful of cross-contamination risks, especially with pre-shredded cheese and deli counter items.

Key Points

Natural block cheese is generally gluten-free: Pure, unprocessed cheese made with milk, salt, enzymes, and cultures contains no gluten.
Beware of processed varieties: Shredded, flavored, or pre-packaged cheese products often contain additives like starches or flavorings that may contain gluten.
Always read labels carefully: The ingredient list can reveal hidden gluten sources, including modified food starch or malt.
Consider cross-contamination risks: Be cautious with deli-sliced cheese, as cross-contamination from shared equipment can occur.
Trust certified gluten-free brands: Brands like Cabot, BelGioioso, and Boar's Head have certified gluten-free cheese products, offering a safer choice.
Most blue cheese is now considered safe: While once a concern, most modern blue cheeses are now gluten-free, but certification is still the safest bet for high sensitivity.

The Basics of Gluten in Cheese

Cheese, in its purest form, is made from milk, enzymes, bacterial cultures, and salt. None of these basic ingredients contain gluten, the protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, this is excellent news, as it means many traditional cheeses are a safe and delicious option. The complications arise not from the cheese-making process itself, but from what manufacturers might add afterward, or how a product is packaged. Understanding the difference between a natural block cheese and a highly processed cheese product is the key to safe consumption.

Naturally Gluten-Free Block Cheese Varieties

For the most reliable gluten-free options, focus on natural, plain block cheeses. These typically have minimal processing and a simple list of ingredients. Many popular and versatile cheeses fall into this category, making it easy to build a variety of meals while adhering to a gluten-free lifestyle.

Safe Block Cheese Examples

Cheddar: A universally popular option, cheddar is almost always gluten-free when sold in its natural block form.
Swiss: This classic, nutty-flavored cheese is another dependable gluten-free choice.
Mozzarella: A staple for pizzas and Italian dishes, plain mozzarella blocks are safe.
Provolone: This versatile slicing cheese is naturally gluten-free.
Gouda: Both young and aged gouda blocks are typically gluten-free.
Brie: This soft, creamy cheese is also naturally gluten-free.
Parmesan: Aged parmesan is a safe, hard cheese for grating over pasta or salads.
Goat Cheese: Most varieties of plain goat cheese are gluten-free.

When Block Cheese Might Not Be Gluten-Free

While natural block cheese is generally safe, several factors can introduce gluten. Processed cheeses, shredded products, and flavors added to cheese can be hidden sources of gluten.

Additives and Hidden Ingredients

Anti-Caking Agents: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain additives to prevent clumping. While most modern manufacturers use gluten-free options like potato starch or powdered cellulose, some older formulas or lesser-known brands might still use wheat-based thickeners.
Modified Food Starch: This ingredient is often used as a thickener in cheese products. Unless specified on the label as being from a gluten-free source (like corn), there is a chance it could be wheat-derived.
Flavored Cheeses: Block cheeses with added flavors, seasonings, or ingredients (such as beer, crackers, or sauces) must be scrutinized carefully. The additive itself could contain gluten.
Blue Cheese: Historically, some blue cheeses were inoculated with mold cultures grown on bread grains. However, the National Celiac Association states that testing indicates gluten levels are typically below the 20ppm safety threshold for most individuals, and many brands are now certified gluten-free. For strict gluten-free diets, checking the certification or calling the manufacturer is recommended.
Beer Cheese: Cheeses flavored with beer or other grain alcohols are not gluten-free unless a gluten-free beer is explicitly used.

How to Verify if Your Cheese is Gluten-Free

For those with celiac disease or severe sensitivity, simply avoiding certain types of cheese isn't always enough. Proactive checking is the most reliable way to ensure a product is safe.

Read the Label: The first and most important step is always to read the ingredient list. Look for obvious gluten sources like wheat, barley, or rye. Also, check for less obvious culprits like modified food starch, malt, or brewer's yeast.
Look for Certification: The most straightforward approach is to look for a certified gluten-free label on the packaging. This ensures the product has been tested to meet specific safety standards.
Check Deli Counters: If purchasing from a deli, there is a risk of cross-contamination from the slicer. Always ask the deli clerk to use a freshly cleaned slicer and change gloves before handling your order.
Contact the Manufacturer: If you have doubts about a specific product, check the company's website for allergen information or contact their customer service for confirmation.

Comparison of Safe and Risky Cheese Types


Feature	Typically Safe	Higher Risk	Caution Needed
Form	Natural Block Cheese	Processed Cheese Slices	Blue Cheese, Crumbled Feta
Ingredients	Milk, Enzymes, Salt, Cultures	Additives, Flavorings, Emulsifiers	Mold Cultures (usually safe, but check)
Additives	Minimal to None	Modified Food Starch, Flavors	Anti-Caking Agents (in pre-shredded)
Processing	Simple, traditional methods	Extensive processing	Varies by manufacturer
Cross-Contamination	Lower risk in sealed blocks	High risk at deli counter	High risk at deli counter

Leading Brands with Gluten-Free Block Cheese

Many well-known brands produce safe, gluten-free block cheeses. Looking for these names can provide an extra layer of confidence during your shopping trip.

Cabot Creamery: Known for its cheddar cheeses, Cabot offers a wide range of gluten-free options.
BelGioioso: This brand provides an extensive selection of certified gluten-free Italian cheeses, including mozzarella and parmesan.
Sargento: A well-regarded brand with many natural cheese products that are also gluten-free.
Boar's Head: This brand's deli cheeses are all certified gluten-free.
Cypress Grove: Their entire line of artisanal cheeses is gluten-free.

Conclusion: Safe Indulgence on a Gluten-Free Diet

For those on a gluten-free diet, enjoying cheese is absolutely possible and delicious, especially when choosing whole, unprocessed block cheese. The journey to a safe cheese choice simply requires awareness and diligence. By understanding the difference between natural and processed cheese, reading labels for hidden ingredients, and taking precautions against cross-contamination at the deli, you can confidently indulge in your favorite cheesy meals. The rule of thumb is simple: stick to the most natural, block-form cheese you can find, and when in doubt, check the label or look for a gluten-free certification. A little bit of knowledge goes a long way in navigating the dairy aisle safely.

This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all cheese is gluten-free. While natural block cheeses are, processed cheese products, flavored varieties, and pre-shredded cheese may contain gluten-based additives or be subject to cross-contamination.

Not always. Pre-shredded cheeses often use anti-caking agents to prevent clumping. While most brands now use gluten-free alternatives like potato starch, it's crucial to check the ingredient list for any wheat-based thickeners or modified food starch.

Yes, for most people. While the mold cultures in some blue cheeses were traditionally grown on bread, modern testing has shown the gluten content to be typically below the safe threshold of 20ppm. For those with high sensitivity, certified gluten-free brands are the best choice.

To avoid cross-contamination at a deli, ask the clerk to use a fresh, clean slicer and change their gloves before handling your block of cheese. This prevents gluten from other products from contaminating your order.

Be on the lookout for ingredients like 'modified food starch' (unless specified as gluten-free), malt, hydrolyzed wheat protein, or brewer's yeast on the label.

Exercise caution with cheese spreads and powders. These products are often highly processed and contain thickeners, emulsifiers, or flavorings that can be a source of gluten. Always check the label or opt for a certified gluten-free version.

Yes, it is safer to buy a solid block of cheese and shred it yourself, as this completely eliminates the risk of hidden gluten from anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded varieties.