Is McCormick Gluten Free? Facts & Product Guide

McCormick offers many gluten-free products, but not all items in their lineup are gluten-free. The company clearly labels certified gluten-free products with a dedicated symbol and maintains strict testing protocols to ensure compliance with FDA standards (less than 20 parts per million of gluten). Single-ingredient spices typically contain no gluten, while certain seasoning blends may include wheat-based ingredients.
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McCormick's Official Gluten-Free Policy

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McCormick & Company takes gluten concerns seriously, particularly for consumers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Their official policy states that products labeled "gluten-free" meet the FDA's stringent definition, containing less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. The company implements rigorous testing procedures throughout their manufacturing process to verify gluten levels in both raw materials and finished products.

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For consumers seeking reliable gluten-free options, McCormick uses a distinctive "Certified Gluten-Free" logo on qualifying products. This certification comes from the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), which maintains even stricter standards than the FDA requirement, testing for gluten levels below 10 ppm.

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Timeline of Gluten-Free Certification at McCormick

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Mccormick's gluten-free certification program has evolved significantly since the FDA established clear labeling standards. Key developments include:

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  • August 2013: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) publishes the final rule defining "gluten-free" for food labeling, setting the threshold at less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Source: FDA Gluten-Free Labeling Rule
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  • October 2013: McCormick launches its first GFCO-certified gluten-free spice blends, including Taco Seasoning and Italian Seasoning, to align with the new regulatory environment. Source: McCormick Press Release
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  • 2014-Present: Gradual expansion of certified products across multiple categories, with current offerings exceeding 100 items. All certified products undergo testing to GFCO's stricter standard of less than 10 ppm. Source: GFCO Certified Products Directory
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Which McCormick Products Are Gluten-Free?

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Understanding which McCormick products are gluten free requires careful label examination. The company categorizes their offerings as follows:

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Product CategoryTypically Gluten-FreePotential Gluten Concerns
Single-Ingredient SpicesYes (black pepper, cinnamon, garlic powder)Rare exceptions for specialty blends
Herb BlendsSelect varieties with certification logoSome contain anti-caking agents with gluten
Seasoning MixesCertified gluten-free options availableMany contain wheat flour or modified food starch
Extracts & Food ColorsMost pure vanilla and food colorsSome specialty extracts may contain gluten
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Identifying Gluten-Free McCormick Products

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When determining is McCormick gluten free certified for specific items, consumers should look for three key indicators on packaging:

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  1. The official "Certified Gluten-Free" logo from GFCO
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  3. Explicit "Gluten-Free" labeling in the product name or description
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  5. Asterisk references that direct to gluten-free statements in the ingredient panel
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Mccormick's gluten free spice list continues to expand as consumer demand grows. The company regularly updates their website with current gluten-free offerings and maintains a dedicated customer service line for specific product inquiries. For those with severe gluten sensitivity, McCormick recommends checking both the front-of-package labeling and the ingredient statement, as formulations can change.

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Manufacturing Practices and Cross-Contamination

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One common concern is McCormick cross contamination gluten during production. The company operates dedicated gluten-free production lines for certified products and implements thorough cleaning protocols between production runs of gluten-containing items. While no facility can guarantee absolute zero gluten due to shared equipment in some cases, McCormick's testing protocols ensure all certified products remain well below safety thresholds.

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For individuals with celiac disease, McCormick's certified gluten-free products represent a safer option than non-certified items. The company's transparency about potential cross-contamination risks demonstrates their commitment to serving consumers with dietary restrictions.

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Contextual Limitations and Safe Usage Guidelines

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While McCormick's certified gluten-free products meet rigorous safety standards, consumers should be aware of important contextual boundaries that affect product safety:

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  • Individual Sensitivity Variations: The FDA's 20 ppm threshold is considered safe for the vast majority of people with celiac disease, but a small subset of individuals may react to levels as low as 10 ppm. The Celiac Disease Foundation emphasizes that "strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is essential," and those with extreme sensitivity should consult their physician. Source: Celiac Disease Foundation - Understanding Gluten
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  • Home Preparation Risks: Cross-contamination can occur during home cooking if gluten-free spices are stored or used with utensils that have contacted gluten-containing ingredients. The National Celiac Association recommends dedicated preparation areas and utensils for individuals with celiac disease. Source: National Celiac Association - Safe Gluten-Free Diet
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  • Product Formulation Changes: Although McCormick maintains strict protocols, ingredient formulations can change. The FDA advises consumers to "read labels carefully every time" due to potential changes in ingredients. Source: FDA Guidance on Gluten-Free Labeling
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How to Verify Gluten-Free Status

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Consumers seeking definitive answers about McCormick gluten free label verification should:

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  • Check the product packaging for official certification logos
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  • Visit McCormick's official website for their current gluten-free product list
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  • Contact McCormick directly through their customer service channels
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  • Scan QR codes on newer packaging that link to detailed product information
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The company maintains an active customer service department specifically trained to address gluten-related questions. Their representatives can provide batch-specific information when needed, which proves particularly valuable for those with severe sensitivities.

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Lisa Chang

Lisa Chang

A well-traveled food writer who has spent the last eight years documenting authentic spice usage in regional cuisines worldwide. Lisa's unique approach combines culinary with hands-on cooking experience, revealing how spices reflect cultural identity across different societies. Lisa excels at helping home cooks understand the cultural context of spices while providing practical techniques for authentic flavor recreation.