Is BBQ Sauce Gluten Free?

Check the Label
Often contains gluten; wheat-free versions exist.
Many BBQ sauce brands contain wheat-based thickeners or worcestershire sauce (with barley). Some brands are wheat-free.

Coeliac Disease

Check label. Many mainstream BBQ sauces contain gluten.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Assume gluten unless labelled GF.

Why Does BBQ Sauce Sometimes Contain Gluten?

BBQ sauce is made from tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, and often wheat-based additives or barley-based worcestershire. Some brands use cornstarch instead.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ warns. BBQ sauce popular in Australia; many contain wheat thickeners.

United States (FDA)

FDA allergen label mandatory if wheat present.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g
Energy670 kJ / 160 kcal
Protein0.8g
Fat, total0.6g
Saturated fat0.1g
Carbohydrate37.5g
Sugars30.6g
Dietary fibre0.8g
Sodium1030mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

Brand Comparison

Not all brands are created equal. Here is how popular bbq sauce brands stack up for gluten content.

BrandRegionGluten Free?CertificationNotes
Praise AU Check None Check specific BBQ sauce varieties
Kraft both Check None Many contain gluten from grain ingredients
Jack Daniel's US Check None Check label for gluten thickeners
Sweet Baby Ray's US Check None Most varieties contain gluten
HP Sauce both Check None Check specific product range

What to Watch For

cross-contamination

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Wheat-free BBQ sauce brands, homemade BBQ sauce, tomato-based sauce, Wheat-based thickeners, worcestershire sauce (barley-based).

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BBQ Sauce gluten free?

Many BBQ sauce brands contain wheat-based thickeners or worcestershire sauce (with barley). Some brands are wheat-free.

Can coeliacs eat bbq sauce?

Check label. Many mainstream BBQ sauces contain gluten.

Related Foods in Sauces and Condiments

Soy Sauce Tamari Fish Sauce Oyster Sauce Hoisin Sauce Worcestershire Sauce Tomato Sauce/Ketchup Mustard

More from RefDat

Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ, Coeliac Australia, WHO

Last reviewed: May 2026