Is cheese gluten free?

Before we delve into the world of crackers, let’s touch on whether people who have coeliac disease or gluten intolerance can eat cheese.

Yes, most cheese is naturally gluten-free. Cheese is typically made from milk, bacterial cultures and rennet, none of which contain gluten. However, there are some important things to consider:

1. Processed Cheese: Some processed cheeses or cheese products (like cheese spreads, pre-shredded cheese or flavoured cheeses) may contain added ingredients, such as starches or flavourings, that could contain gluten. Always check labels on processed cheese products to ensure they are gluten-free.
2. Cross-Contamination: Cheese can sometimes come into contact with gluten-containing foods during processing, packaging or in deli counters. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s best to look for cheese labelled “gluten-free”. This means it has been tested and verified to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.

Overall, the majority of cheeses are safe for a gluten-free diet, but it’s wise to check labels and consult manufacturers for processed varieties.

Best crackers and cheese pairings for people who can’t eat gluten

Rice crackers

Rice crackers are a popular gluten-free choice because of their neutral flavour, which lets the cheese shine. Look for crackers made from whole grains, like brown rice, as they tend to have a fuller taste and provide a satisfying crunch.

• Best cheese pairings: These crackers go well with creamy cheeses such as Brie and Camembert, as well as hard cheeses like aged Cheddar or Gouda.
• Recommendation: Mary’s Gone Crackers Real Thin Crackers offer a nice balance of lightness with a bit of a snap, making them a versatile base for cheese.

Almond flour crackers

Almond flour crackers are a great gluten-free choice with a mild nuttiness that pairs beautifully with many types of cheese. They’re high in protein and have a satisfying, buttery texture.

• Best cheese pairings: These crackers are ideal with fresh cheeses, such as Ricotta or goat cheese, and also work well with semi-hard cheeses like Gruyère.
• Recommendation: Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers are a well-known brand, offering a selection of flavours. Their sea salt variety is particularly good for cheese pairing, as it doesn’t overpower the cheese.

Seed crackers

Seed crackers are often packed with flax, chia, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, making them rich in fibre and omega-3 fatty acids. These crackers have a dense, nutty flavour and crunchy texture, adding depth to a cheese plate.

• Best cheese pairings: The earthy flavour of seed crackers complements blue cheeses like Stilton or Gorgonzola, as well as creamy cheeses like Burrata or Mozzarella.
• Recommendation: Hu Kitchen Sea Salt Grain-Free Crackers are an excellent option. Made without refined starches or fillers, they offer a simple, clean flavour that pairs well with various cheeses.

Lentil and chickpea crackers

Lentil and chickpea-based crackers bring extra protein and a unique, slightly earthy flavour to the table. They’re more filling than some other options, which can make them a good choice for a heartier cheese spread.

• Best cheese pairings: Try these with creamy, tangy cheeses like Labneh or Roquefort. They also pair nicely with hard cheeses like Parmesan.
• Recommendation: Hippeas Vegan White Cheddar Chickpea Snacks offer a savoury flavour that works well with a range of cheeses. Though these are more puffed than traditional crackers, they provide an excellent gluten-free option for pairing.

Potato crackers

Potato-based crackers offer a light, crispy texture with a delicate flavour that enhances rather than competes with cheese. They tend to be a crowd-pleaser due to their familiar flavour and texture.

• Best cheese pairings: Potato crackers pair wonderfully with Brie, cream cheese, and other mild cheeses, as well as stronger flavours like aged Asiago.
• Recommendation: Luke’s Organic Potato Chips are thicker and hold up well to soft, spreadable cheeses without losing their crunch.

Corn-based crackers

Corn-based crackers are another gluten-free favourite, known for their slight sweetness and sturdy texture. They’re ideal for bold-flavoured cheeses that can match their crunchy texture.

• Best cheese pairings: Corn-based crackers are great with smoked cheeses or those with bold flavours, such as aged Cheddar or smoked Gouda.
• Recommendation: Late July Organic Sea Salt Thin & Crispy Tortilla Chips are a top choice for cheese pairings. Their thin and crispy nature makes them ideal for pairing with smooth cheeses like Fontina or Havarti.

Tips for pairing gluten-free crackers with cheese

• Texture balance: Choose a cracker that complements the texture of the cheese. For instance, pair creamy cheeses with a firmer cracker for contrast.
• Flavour harmony: Look for crackers with neutral or mildly flavoured bases, so they don’t overpower the cheese.
• Add accompaniments: Gluten-free crackers, along with cheese, can be paired with extras like fruits, nuts, or honey to enhance flavour.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer a light and crispy cracker or one with a nutty, hearty crunch, there’s a gluten-free option for every cheese lover.

With these selections, you can create a delicious, satisfying pairing experience without sacrificing flavour or texture. Next time you’re planning a cheese platter, consider these gluten-free crackers to elevate your spread and cater to everyone’s needs!

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post Best Gluten-Free Crackers To Eat With Cheese appeared first on Cheese Scientist.

SEE ALSO: Which cheeses are actually completely lactose-free?  →

What is gluten?

Gluten is a general name for the proteins found in wheat (e.g. wheatberries, durum, emmer, semolina, spelt, farina, farro), rye and barley. Actually, gluten helps foods maintain their shape, acting as a glue that holds particles together.

So, is cheese actually gluten-free?

This means that foods from other foods groups like dairy (e.g. unflavoured milk, plain yogurt, cheese), fresh fruits and vegetables, and meat do not naturally contain gluten.

Therefore, any natural cheese will be entirely gluten-free. But, be careful here, because some processed commercial cheeses such as cheese slices and pre-shredded cheese products may still contain other ingredients like gums or stabilizers made from gluten-containing grains.

Examples of cheeses you can eat with gluten intolerance

As we mentioned above, all artisanal cheeses do not contain any gluten. Due to this, they will be safe to eat if you have coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. Let’s have a look at some great examples.

Queso Fresco

Also known as Queso Blanco, Queso Fresco is a fresh white cheese that is very popular in Spain, Mexico and South America.

Brie

France’s most famous soft white mould cheese is of course another great gluten free cheese.

Muenster

In the United States, soft washed rind cheeses don’t get much more popular than Muenster. Once again, this deli cheese is free of all wheat-based ingredients.

Cheddar

Without a doubt, Cheddar is the world’s most popular cheese. And the great news is that a regular, unflavoured Cheddar will come completely gluten free.

String Cheese

String Cheese is the ultimate midnight snack. When buying your String Cheese, be sure to choose one that is 100% Mozzarella. That way you will be buying a product that is definitely gluten free.

Mozzarella

As we mentioned above, Mozzarella (buffalo) or even Fior di Latte (cow) are both suitable for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.

Ricotta

Ricotta is a popular Italian whey cheese that is made with very simple ingredients. And none of those contain wheat or any wheat derivatives.

Blue Cheese

Finally, the large majority of blue cheeses will be safe for you to eat if you’re on a gluten-free diet. Just be mindful that some blue cheeses contain mould that has been grown on bread. Just be sure to check the label before you buy and eat.

Cheese products to avoid if you are gluten intolerant

Some processed cheese products might contain wheat-derived ingredients. With those, you will have to be extra careful when choosing which brands to purchase. We’ve got some examples for you below.

Shredded Cheese

Shredded cheese that is sold in bags at your local grocery store often contain starch or cellulose. Those two ingredients prevents the cheese shreds from sticking together. While some brands use potato starch (gluten free), most commercial ones contain a wheat-derived cellulose. Therefore, be sure to check the label and ingredient list before buying.

Plant-Based Cheese

A number of plant-based (dairy-free) cheeses are made with flour. So, you will want to check the label and ingredients list before eating such cheeses.

Cheese Spreads

While most brands like Philadelphia Cream Cheese are gluten free, some commercial cheese spreads may contain stabilising or flavouring agents that are derived from wheat. As always, check the label before buying.

Best serving tips for gluten-free cheese platters

Creating a gluten-free cheese platter requires some thoughtful planning to keep everything safe, delicious, and appealing for everyone. Here are some tips to make your gluten-free cheese platter a memorable experience:

1. Separate gluten-free items

If you’re serving both gluten and gluten-free options, use separate platters to prevent cross-contamination. Even a small amount of gluten can affect those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, so keeping these items separate is essential.

2. Use gluten-free labels

Place small labels next to each gluten-free item to make it easy for guests to identify which options are safe. This is especially helpful if you’re serving a mix of gluten-free and traditional crackers or bread.

3. Offer a variety of textures

To make the platter more exciting, include a range of textures. Add crunchy gluten-free crackers, soft cheeses, fresh fruits, dried fruits and nuts for variety. A mix of textures enhances the tasting experience and keeps guests coming back for more.

4. Add gluten-free accompaniments

Round out the platter with gluten-free accompaniments like honey, olives, pickles, and fruit preserves. These add colour, flavour and variety while ensuring everything on the platter is safe for gluten-free guests.

5. Provide separate serving utensils

Use separate serving utensils for each item to prevent cross-contact, especially if there are gluten items nearby. This will keep the platter safe for those who need to avoid gluten.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading our post on gluten in cheese. As you can see, almost every type of cheese is gluten-free. However, there are a small number of product types that you will have to be careful with.

Of course, you should always check the label beforehand. Did we leave out your favourite cheese? Let us know in the comments.

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post Is Cheese Gluten-Free? (Always Read The Ingredients List) appeared first on Cheese Scientist.