The Cross-Contamination Risk with Cornstarch
Cornstarch is a fine, powdery substance derived purely from the endosperm of corn kernels. Since corn is a naturally gluten-free grain, pure cornstarch should not contain gluten. However, the primary risk lies in the manufacturing and packaging process. Many food manufacturers operate multi-product facilities that also process gluten-containing grains, such as wheat, barley, and rye. During production, airborne particles or shared equipment can cause cross-contamination, introducing trace amounts of gluten into an otherwise gluten-free product. For individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities, even these trace amounts can be enough to trigger an adverse immune response. This is why relying on a brand's "naturally gluten-free" status is often not enough to ensure safety.
Brands with Certified Gluten-Free Cornstarch
To eliminate the risk of cross-contamination, many brands go above and beyond by obtaining third-party certification. This certification ensures their products are tested and contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, and sometimes even less, a standard considered safe for people with celiac disease.
- Bob's Red Mill: This employee-owned company is a trusted name in the gluten-free community. Their cornstarch is processed and packaged in a dedicated gluten-free facility and is batch-tested to ensure it meets strict gluten-free standards. Their packaging prominently features a gluten-free label.
- Hodgson Mill: Hodgson Mill also produces certified gluten-free cornstarch. In fact, their cornstarch is certified by the Celiac Support Association, which has even stricter standards of less than 5 ppm of gluten. They clearly state their non-GMO and gluten-free status on the packaging.
- Judee's Cornstarch: Another brand to consider is Judee's, which produces its cornstarch in a dedicated gluten-free facility. For those with multiple sensitivities, this brand offers a high level of assurance.
Other Reliably Gluten-Free Brands
Some brands, while perhaps not certified by a specific third party, have strong company policies and manufacturing practices that minimize the risk of gluten contamination.
- Argo & Kingsford's: According to the company's FAQ, their cornstarch is considered gluten-free. They primarily focus on cornstarch and baking powder products, which reduces the potential for gluten-containing ingredients to be present in their facilities. This makes their products a low-risk option for many individuals.
- Clabber Girl: Like Argo, Clabber Girl focuses heavily on baking products and states that its cornstarch is naturally gluten-free and processed in a facility that does not handle gluten-containing products. Their product is also certified kosher and non-GMO.
A Comparison of Gluten-Free Cornstarch Brands
| Brand | Gluten-Free Status | Certification | Facility | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bob's Red Mill | Certified Gluten-Free | Yes (Internal testing) | Dedicated gluten-free facility | Trusted for celiac safety. Also offers a wide range of other GF products. |
| Hodgson Mill | Certified Gluten-Free | Yes (Celiac Support Association) | Dedicated gluten-free facility | Holds a very strict certification (<5ppm gluten). Also non-GMO. |
| Argo & Kingsford's | Company-declared gluten-free | No (Internal process control) | Mostly dedicated to cornstarch products | Reputable brand, low risk of cross-contamination due to product focus. |
| Clabber Girl | Company-declared gluten-free | No (Internal process control) | No gluten-containing products in facility | Focuses on baking products. Also certified Kosher and Non-GMO. |
| Judee's | Certified Gluten-Free | Yes (Third-party) | Dedicated gluten-free facility | Excellent choice for those with multiple food sensitivities. |
How to Identify a Truly Gluten-Free Product
When purchasing cornstarch or any other product, especially with celiac disease, looking beyond the ingredients list is crucial. Here are some steps for ensuring safety:
- Look for Certification Logos: The most reliable indicator is a third-party gluten-free certification logo, such as the GFCO (Gluten-Free Certification Organization), the Celiac Support Association (CSA) emblem, or the NSF Gluten-Free mark. These signify independent testing and adherence to strict gluten-free standards. The UK has the 'Crossed Grain' symbol from Coeliac UK.
- Read “May Contain” Warnings: If a package says “made in a facility that processes wheat” or “may contain wheat,” it is a clear indicator of a high cross-contamination risk and should be avoided by celiacs and highly sensitive individuals.
- Check the Company Website: If you are unsure, visiting the manufacturer's website can often provide information on their gluten-free policy, including whether products are processed in a dedicated facility.
- Understand 'Naturally Gluten-Free': A product labeled 'naturally gluten-free' but lacking certification should be viewed with caution. This indicates that the ingredients are inherently gluten-free, but does not address potential cross-contamination during processing.
Gluten-Free Alternatives to Cornstarch
If you prefer to avoid cornstarch entirely due to corn sensitivities or other reasons, several safe and effective gluten-free alternatives are available:
- Arrowroot Powder: A versatile thickener for sauces, glazes, and baked goods, which also creates a clear gel.
- Tapioca Starch: Provides a chewy texture and is excellent for thickening pie fillings and sauces.
- Potato Starch: Ideal for thickening soups and gravies, but should be added toward the end of cooking as it can lose thickening power when boiled for too long.
- Xanthan Gum: A powerful binder used in gluten-free baking. Only a very small amount is needed.
Conclusion
For individuals on a strict gluten-free diet, selecting a safe cornstarch requires diligence. While cornstarch is naturally free of gluten, cross-contamination is a significant risk in shared manufacturing facilities. The safest options are certified gluten-free brands like Bob's Red Mill and Hodgson Mill, which undergo third-party testing and use dedicated equipment. Other brands like Argo and Clabber Girl follow stringent internal protocols that make them a low-risk choice. When in doubt, always prioritize products with a gluten-free certification logo or consider one of the many reliable cornstarch alternatives.
For more detailed information on living with celiac disease and gluten-free food safety, consult a reliable resource such as the Celiac Disease Foundation.
