Yes, Cedars Labneh Is Gluten Free: A Guide for Celiac and Gluten-Sensitive Diets

November 11, 2025 •

3 min read

According to product listings and ingredient analysis, Cedars labneh is confirmed to be a gluten-free product. This Mediterranean classic, made from strained yogurt, is naturally devoid of gluten-containing grains, making it a safe and delicious option for those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

Cedars labneh is gluten-free, with its core ingredients consisting of cultured milk and cream, not grains. The production process relies on straining yogurt, not adding gluten-based thickeners, ensuring safety for those avoiding gluten. It is important to confirm ingredient lists for any additives in flavored versions, though Cedars' plain variety is safe.

Key Points

Gluten-Free Confirmation: Cedars plain labneh is confirmed to be gluten-free, based on product information and ingredient lists.
Naturally Free of Gluten: Labneh is made from strained yogurt, not grains, meaning it is inherently gluten-free in its pure form.
Safe Ingredients: The ingredients for Cedars plain labneh consist of milk, cream, and cultures, with no gluten-containing additives.
Vigilance with Flavored Varieties: Although the plain version is safe, always check the label of flavored products for potential hidden gluten in additives.
Versatile and Safe Enjoyment: Cedars labneh can be enjoyed in numerous gluten-free ways, from dips with vegetables to spreads on certified gluten-free bread.
Reduced Lactose: Some sources suggest labneh may have less lactose than other cheeses due to the straining process, potentially making it easier to digest for those with sensitivities.

Is Cedars Labneh Gluten Free? A Deep Dive into Ingredients and Safety

For those managing a gluten-free diet, a key challenge is confidently navigating product labels. In the case of Cedars labneh, the answer is straightforward and reassuring. Numerous product listings and ingredient analyses confirm that Cedars labneh is a gluten-free food, making it a safe choice for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The product is a simple and authentic Mediterranean staple, with ingredients that are naturally free from gluten.

The Pure Ingredients of Cedars Labneh

The simplicity of Cedars labneh’s recipe is what guarantees its gluten-free status. A review of the ingredient list for the plain variety reveals only dairy products and cultures. The primary components are:

Yogurt (Grade A Pasteurized Skim Milk, Cream)
Milk Protein Concentrate
Salt
Pectin
Rennet
Live Active Cultures

Notably absent from this list are any gluten-containing grains, such as wheat, barley, or rye. Pectin is a fruit-based thickening agent and not a source of gluten, further confirming the product's safety. This ingredient transparency gives consumers confidence in their food choices, especially when a dietary restriction like celiac disease is involved.

Labneh Production and Inherent Gluten-Free Nature

Labneh is a soft, spreadable yogurt cheese created by straining yogurt to remove the whey. The process fundamentally involves only dairy, salt, and live cultures. Because its composition is so basic and dairy-based, labneh, in its traditional form, is naturally gluten-free. The thickness and creaminess that are characteristic of labneh are achieved through the prolonged straining process, not through the addition of gluten-based starches or thickeners, which can be a source of hidden gluten in other processed foods.

Navigating Flavored Varieties and Potential Cross-Contamination

While the plain version of Cedars labneh is safe, it is always wise for individuals with celiac disease to be vigilant when it comes to flavored products or those with mix-ins. For Cedars and other brands, flavored versions may contain other ingredients, though Cedars is a conscientious brand. A useful rule of thumb is to check the label for any added components that might contain gluten, such as malt or modified food starch, if the source is not specified. Furthermore, while less common for labneh, cross-contamination is a risk to be aware of, particularly if the product is produced on shared equipment with items containing gluten. However, Cedars Foods is a reputable brand known for its clear labeling regarding gluten-free products.

Comparison: Cedars Labneh vs. Greek Yogurt

Understanding the differences between labneh and Greek yogurt can also inform a gluten-free consumer's choice.


Feature	Cedars Labneh (Plain)	Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Gluten-Free	Yes	Generally, yes, but always check labels
Consistency	Thicker, denser, spreadable like cream cheese	Thick, but generally less dense and more 'spoonable'
Ingredients	Milk, cream, protein concentrate, salt, cultures, pectin	Cultured milk (sometimes just milk)
Salt Content	Contains some added salt	Varies by brand, can be unsalted
Straining Time	Strained for a longer duration to achieve high density	Strained for a shorter duration than labneh

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Cedars Labneh Safely

With the assurance that Cedars labneh is gluten-free, you can enjoy it in many delicious ways. Here are some gluten-free serving suggestions:

As a Dip: Serve with fresh-cut vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers.
On Gluten-Free Crackers or Bread: Spread it on your favorite certified gluten-free bread or crackers as a tangy alternative to cream cheese.
With Fruit: Pair with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.
Savory Topping: Use as a dollop on baked potatoes or alongside grilled chicken or falafel (made with gluten-free ingredients).
In Recipes: Incorporate it into dips or sauces as a thick, tangy base.

Conclusion: A Safe and Flavorful Choice

For those on a gluten-free diet, Cedars labneh is a safe and versatile addition to the kitchen. Its simple, dairy-based ingredients and traditional straining process ensure it is naturally free from gluten. While the plain variety is a reliable option, always verify the ingredient list for any flavored versions. By understanding the composition and production of this delightful yogurt cheese, you can enjoy its rich, tangy flavor with confidence and peace of mind. For more detailed information on celiac disease and maintaining a gluten-free diet, consult reputable sources like the Celiac Disease Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Cedars plain labneh is considered safe for individuals with celiac disease because it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients, and its production process is based on straining yogurt.

No, labneh is naturally gluten-free as it is a dairy product made by straining yogurt. It does not contain wheat, barley, or rye.

The best way is to read the ingredient list to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives. For certified assurance, look for gluten-free certification on the packaging. The plain Cedars labneh is explicitly labeled as gluten-free.

For plain labneh like Cedars, hidden gluten is not a concern. However, flavored yogurts or labneh products might have additives, so checking the ingredient list is crucial, especially for thickeners or malt.

No, Cedars labneh is a dairy product made from milk and cream and is not suitable for a dairy-free diet. It contains milk and its derivatives.

Yes, you can. Labneh has a thick, spreadable consistency similar to cream cheese, and Cedars labneh is gluten-free, making it an excellent tangy alternative for gluten-free bagels or toast.

Both labneh and most Greek yogurts are naturally gluten-free, as they are dairy-based. The key difference lies in the straining process, which makes labneh thicker and tangier. Both are generally safe on a gluten-free diet.