Is Custard Gluten Free?

Gluten verdict for Custard: Check the Label

Check the Label Custard

Most custards are gluten free, but some commercial varieties contain additives or thickeners that may contain gluten.

AU FSANZ & Coeliac Australia US FDA

Rated against the stricter of the two standards. Compare AU and US rules

Custard is made from milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Most are safe. But instant custard powder or shop-made varieties may contain modified starch.

Coeliac Disease

If making custard at home, use cornstarch or arrowroot. Commercial custard should be checked for ingredients.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Safe if made with safe thickeners.

Why Does Custard Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Thickening agents (cornstarch, modified starch) can be gluten-derived. Some instant custard uses wheat starch.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ allows custard if made with safe thickeners. Check commercial brands.

United States (FDA)

FDA allows custard if made with safe thickeners.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts

Per 100g · Typical serve: 100 g (vanilla, ready-made)

Energy460 kJ / 110 kcal

Protein3.2g

Fat, total3.5g

Saturated fat2.1g

Carbohydrate16.0g

Sugars13.5g

Dietary fibre0.0g

Sodium75mg

Source: AFCD. 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

Modified starches, wheat starch, additives in instant custard powder.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Homemade custard (milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla), custard made with cornstarch.

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 Custard gluten free?

Custard is made from milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Most are safe. But instant custard powder or shop-made varieties may contain modified starch.

Can coeliacs eat custard?

If making custard at home, use cornstarch or arrowroot. Commercial custard should be checked for ingredients.

Related Foods in Dairy

GF, gluten free Milk (Plain)Check the label Flavoured Milk GF, gluten free Cheese (Plain and Hard Varieties)GF, gluten free Cream Cheese GF, gluten free Cottage Cheese GF, gluten free Blue Cheese Check the label Processed Cheese Slices GF, gluten free Butter

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

Last reviewed: July 2026