What Vinegar Does Not Contain Gluten? A Guide for Gluten-Free Diets

November 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Celiac Association, most vinegars are naturally gluten-free and safe for consumption. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, understanding what vinegar does not contain gluten is crucial to avoid accidental exposure. This guide breaks down the safe options and highlights the one type to always steer clear of.

Quick Summary

Most vinegars, including apple cider, balsamic, and distilled white vinegar, are gluten-free, with the notable exception of malt vinegar. Distilled vinegars are safe even if made from gluten-containing grains because the distillation process removes gluten protein. Always check labels on flavored or uncertified products for hidden gluten sources.

Key Points

Malt vinegar contains gluten: Avoid malt vinegar, as it is made from barley and not distilled, meaning it is unsafe for those on a gluten-free diet.
Distilled vinegar is safe: Even if made from gluten-containing grains, the distillation process removes all gluten, making distilled white vinegar a safe option.
Naturally gluten-free options are abundant: Apple cider, balsamic, red and white wine, and rice vinegars are all naturally gluten-free when in their pure forms.
Read labels on flavored varieties: Flavored or seasoned vinegars, glazes, and creams might contain hidden gluten, so always check the ingredient list.
Look for gluten-free certification: For extra assurance against cross-contamination, choose products that are third-party certified as gluten-free.
Be cautious when dining out: In restaurants, be aware of the potential use of malt vinegar in dressings or marinades, as it is a common ingredient in some cuisines.

Naturally Gluten-Free Vinegars

Many of the most popular vinegars are inherently gluten-free because they are derived from naturally gluten-free ingredients.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Made from fermented apples, apple cider vinegar is naturally gluten-free and a versatile staple in many kitchens. It is used in everything from salad dressings and marinades to certain baking recipes. When purchasing, it's wise to ensure the product is 100% pure apple cider vinegar, as some flavored versions might contain additives with gluten.

Balsamic Vinegar

Authentic traditional balsamic vinegar is made from cooked grape must, which is a naturally gluten-free process. However, less expensive commercial versions, balsamic glazes, or creams may contain additives like thickeners or caramel coloring, which could potentially contain gluten. For guaranteed safety, look for products with a protected designation of origin (DOP or IGP) or a certified gluten-free label.

Wine Vinegars (Red and White)

Both red and white wine vinegars are made from fermented grapes and are naturally gluten-free. They are reliable choices for dressings, sauces, and reductions. As with other vinegars, it's important to check for any flavored variants that may have added gluten-containing ingredients.

Rice Vinegar

Typically made from fermented rice, most pure rice vinegars are gluten-free. It is a staple in many Asian cuisines. However, some imported or seasoned rice wine vinegars may contain added wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients. Always check the ingredient list for potential red flags like 'wheat' or 'barley'.

Distilled White Vinegar: Safe Despite its Source

Distilled white vinegar is a safe and reliable option for those avoiding gluten, even when produced from a gluten-containing grain like wheat. The distillation process is key to this safety. Gluten is a large protein that does not evaporate or carry over with the steam during distillation. As the liquid is heated and purified, the gluten is left behind, leaving the final distillate completely gluten-free. This principle also applies to many distilled alcoholic spirits.

The Vinegar You Must Avoid: Malt Vinegar

Malt vinegar is the primary vinegar to avoid on a gluten-free diet.

Made from Barley: It is produced from the fermentation of malted barley, a gluten-containing grain.
Not Distilled: Unlike distilled vinegars, malt vinegar is not distilled, meaning the gluten proteins remain in the final product.
Common Use: It is a common ingredient in traditional fish and chips and certain chutneys and pickles.
Labeling: The term 'malt vinegar' or 'barley malt' should be a warning sign to anyone on a gluten-free diet.

Comparison of Common Vinegars


Vinegar Type	Source	Gluten-Free Status	Key Considerations
Apple Cider Vinegar	Apples	Naturally Gluten-Free	Check labels for flavored varieties that might contain additives.
Balsamic Vinegar	Grapes	Naturally Gluten-Free	Authentic versions are safe. Be wary of cheap glazes and creams with additives.
Red/White Wine Vinegar	Grapes	Naturally Gluten-Free	Read labels for added flavorings or ingredients.
Distilled White Vinegar	Corn, potatoes, grain (wheat)	Gluten-Free	The distillation process removes all gluten, even if derived from wheat.
Rice Vinegar	Rice	Naturally Gluten-Free	Look out for 'seasoned' varieties that might contain added wheat.
Malt Vinegar	Barley	Contains Gluten	Must be avoided due to being made from barley and not distilled.

Tips for Safe Vinegar Consumption

Read Labels Carefully

Always read the ingredient label to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources, especially with flavored or seasoned vinegars. The FDA ruled in 2020 that fermented and hydrolyzed foods must be gluten-free before fermentation or hydrolysis to be labeled 'gluten-free'.

Look for Certifications

When in doubt, purchase vinegars with a third-party gluten-free certification logo, such as those from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).

Beware of Cross-Contamination

If you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease, be mindful of potential cross-contamination, especially when dining out. A restaurant might use malt vinegar in a marinade or sauce without you knowing.

Conclusion

In summary, most vinegars, including distilled white, apple cider, balsamic, and wine vinegars, are safe for individuals following a gluten-free diet. The key exception to remember is malt vinegar, which is made from barley and is not distilled. By understanding the production process and carefully checking labels, you can confidently use a wide variety of vinegars without worry.

For additional support and information on managing a gluten-free lifestyle, you can consult resources like the National Celiac Association for their comprehensive guidelines on safe eating practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, distilled white vinegar is gluten-free. While it can be made from a gluten-containing grain, the distillation process removes all gluten protein, making the final product safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

The main difference is the source and production method. Regular vinegars like those from apples or grapes are naturally gluten-free. Malt vinegar, however, is made from barley and is not distilled, so the gluten remains in the final product.

Yes, authentic balsamic vinegar is gluten-free as it's made from grapes. You should, however, be careful with flavored glazes or cheaper commercial versions, which may contain additives with gluten.

Flavored vinegars require careful checking. Some brands may add ingredients that contain gluten. It's best to read the label to ensure no gluten sources like malt are included.

Pure rice vinegar is gluten-free. The potential issue arises with 'seasoned' rice vinegars, which may have added ingredients that contain wheat. Always read the ingredient list to be sure.

While vinegar itself may be gluten-free, cross-contamination is a risk, especially with flavored vinegars or those processed in facilities with gluten products. Opting for certified gluten-free products can help mitigate this risk.

In the United States, if a label simply lists 'vinegar,' it typically refers to cider vinegar, which is gluten-free. However, when in doubt, it is always safest to contact the manufacturer to confirm the source.