Is Cocoa powder Gluten Free?

Gluten Free
Pure cocoa powder is naturally gluten free.
Cocoa powder is made from roasted cocoa beans. It contains no gluten. However, some commercial cocoa products may have additives or be processed in shared facilities.

Coeliac Disease

Most pure cocoa powder is safe. Check commercial cocoa products for additives.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance.

Why Does Cocoa powder Not Contain Gluten?

Cocoa is a plant product with no gluten proteins.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ treats pure cocoa powder as gluten free. Australian brands are typically safe.

United States (FDA)

FDA treats cocoa powder as gluten free. US brands are typically safe.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g (unsweetened)
Energy1046 kJ / 250 kcal
Protein22.4g
Fat, total13.7g
Saturated fat8.1g
Carbohydrate57.9g
Sugars1.8g
Dietary fibre33.2g
Sodium21mg

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

Some brands may have additives or cross-contamination warnings. Dutch-process cocoa is still gluten free.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Dark chocolate, chocolate chips, carob powder, cinnamon.

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 Cocoa powder gluten free?

Cocoa powder is made from roasted cocoa beans. It contains no gluten. However, some commercial cocoa products may have additives or be processed in shared facilities.

Can coeliacs eat cocoa powder?

Most pure cocoa powder is safe. Check commercial cocoa products for additives.

Related Foods in Baking Ingredients

Plain flour (wheat) Self-raising flour Bread flour Almond flour or meal Rice flour Coconut flour Tapioca starch or flour Potato starch

More from RefDat

Need to convert recipe measurements for gluten-free baking? RefDat cooking converters cover cups to grams, tablespoons to millilitres, and more. For oven adjustments see the temperature converter. Looking for kitchen gear that handles gluten-free cooking? See RefDat's Australian reviews of stand mixers for coeliac-friendly options.

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 guidelines, Coeliac Australia

Last reviewed: May 2026