Is Blue Cheese Gluten Free?

Gluten Free
Blue cheese is naturally gluten free despite the blue mould.
The blue colour comes from penicillium mould cultures, not from gluten. Ingredients are milk, salt, cultures, and rennet.

Coeliac Disease

Completely safe for coeliac disease.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Safe for NCGS.

Why Does Blue Cheese Not Contain Gluten?

Penicillium roqueforti is a fungal culture that doesn't produce gluten. The mould grows naturally in the cheese during aging.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ classifies blue cheese as naturally GF.

United States (FDA)

FDA classifies blue cheese as naturally GF.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g
Energy1463 kJ / 350 kcal
Protein21.4g
Fat, total28.7g
Saturated fat18.7g
Carbohydrate2.3g
Sugars0.5g
Dietary fibre0.0g
Sodium1150mg

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.

What to Watch For

None specific. Standard cross contamination precautions.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Any plain blue cheese variety.

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 Blue Cheese gluten free?

The blue colour comes from penicillium mould cultures, not from gluten. Ingredients are milk, salt, cultures, and rennet.

Can coeliacs eat blue cheese?

Completely safe for coeliac disease.

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, Cheese Board guidelines

Last reviewed: May 2026