Are McCormick Spices Gluten-Free? Verified 2025 List & Safety Guide

Are McCormick Spices Gluten-Free? Verified 2025 List & Safety Guide

If you're asking "Are McCormick spices gluten free?" the direct answer is: some are certified gluten-free, but not all. According to McCormick's official website and FDA guidelines, pure single spices like cinnamon or black pepper are naturally gluten-free, but many seasoning blends may contain gluten or have cross-contamination risks. Only products labeled "gluten-free" are certified safe for celiac disease.

This guide provides verified 2025 information based on FDA standards, third-party certifications, and McCormick's latest product data. We'll cover exactly which products are safe, how to check labels, and expert tips for gluten-free cooking.

Spice Jars on Shelf

McCormick Spices: Gluten-Free Facts by FDA Standards

The FDA requires gluten-free products to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. McCormick certifies specific products through the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), which tests for levels below 10 ppm. Always look for the GFCO logo on packaging.

Product Gluten-Free Status Certification Key Notes
Cajun Seasoning Yes GFCO Certified Tested to <10 ppm gluten
Italian Seasoning Mix Yes GFCO Certified Verified by third-party lab testing
Fajita Seasoning Yes GFCO Certified Specifically formulated for gluten-free diets
Adobo Seasoning Yes GFCO Certified Contains no wheat, barley, or rye ingredients
Taco Seasoning (regular) No Contains gluten Includes wheat-derived maltodextrin
Taco Seasoning (gluten-free version) Yes GFCO Certified Look for "gluten-free" on label
Gravy Master No Contains barley Barley-based ingredients make it unsafe
Pure single spices (e.g., paprika, cumin) Naturally gluten-free Not certified Safe for most; for celiac disease, choose GFCO-certified versions

How to Check if Your McCormick Spice is Gluten-Free

Follow these steps to ensure safety:

  1. Look for the GFCO logo on packaging — this is the most reliable indicator.
  2. Check for "gluten-free" labeling — McCormick only uses this claim on certified products.
  3. Avoid "may contain wheat" warnings — even if the product doesn't contain gluten, cross-contamination risks exist.
  4. Visit McCormick's official gluten-free page for the latest verified list: mccormick.com/gluten-free
  5. Never rely on ingredient lists alone — some additives (like maltodextrin) may be wheat-derived.

Expert Tips for a Gluten-Free Spice Pantry

  • Store certified gluten-free spices separately in labeled containers to avoid cross-contact.
  • Make your own blends using single GFCO-certified spices for complete control.
  • When dining out, ask restaurants to confirm their spice blends are gluten-free — many commercial blends contain hidden gluten.
  • For celiac disease, only use products with GFCO certification — this ensures rigorous testing beyond FDA minimums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all McCormick spices gluten-free?

No. Only products explicitly labeled "gluten-free" or bearing the GFCO certification logo are safe for celiac disease. Pure single spices are naturally gluten-free but not always certified — for high-risk individuals, choose certified versions.

Which McCormick spices are certified gluten-free?

As of 2025, certified products include: Cajun Seasoning, Italian Seasoning Mix, Fajita Seasoning, Adobo Seasoning, and the gluten-free version of Taco Seasoning. Always verify via the official list since formulations change.

Does McCormick test for gluten contamination?

Yes. Certified products undergo third-party testing by GFCO to ensure levels below 10 ppm gluten. McCormick's manufacturing facilities follow strict protocols, but only certified products guarantee safety for celiac disease.

Can I trust McCormick's "gluten-free" claim with celiac disease?

Yes. GFCO certification requires FDA-compliant testing (less than 20 ppm gluten) and annual facility audits. For severe sensitivity, always choose certified products — unmarked "gluten-free" claims may not meet these standards.

Why does McCormick use maltodextrin in some blends?

Maltodextrin can be derived from wheat, corn, or potatoes. In non-certified blends, it's often wheat-based. Certified gluten-free products use corn-based maltodextrin and undergo rigorous testing to eliminate gluten traces.

What should I do if I'm unsure about a product?

Contact McCormick customer service with the product name and UPC code. Alternatively, use certified alternatives from brands like Simply Organic or Badia Spices, which specialize in gluten-free certification.

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

A passionate culinary historian with over 15 years of experience tracing spice trade routes across continents. Sarah have given her unique insights into how spices shaped civilizations throughout history. Her engaging storytelling approach brings ancient spice traditions to life, connecting modern cooking enthusiasts with the rich cultural heritage behind everyday ingredients. Her expertise in identifying authentic regional spice variations, where she continues to advocate for preserving traditional spice knowledge for future generations.