Are Jam or preserves Gluten Free?

Gluten Free
Plain jam and preserves (fruit and sugar) are naturally gluten free.
Jam is made from fruit, sugar, and pectin. These contain no gluten. Most brands are safe, though some may add thickeners or flavourings that contain gluten.

Coeliac Disease

Most plain jam is safe. Check the ingredient list for thickeners.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance.

Why Do Jam or preserves Not Contain Gluten?

Fruit and sugar contain no gluten. Pectin is derived from fruit and is naturally gluten free.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ treats plain jam as gluten free. Australian brands like Bonne Maman and supermarket own brands are typically safe.

United States (FDA)

FDA recognises plain jam as gluten free. US brands are typically safe.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g (strawberry)
Energy1092 kJ / 261 kcal
Protein0.4g
Fat, total0.1g
Saturated fat0.0g
Carbohydrate68.9g
Sugars48.5g
Dietary fibre0.9g
Sodium32mg

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 jam brands add wheat starch, malt, or other gluten-containing thickeners. Always check the label.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Honey, marmalade, fruit compote, fruit leather.

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

Are Jam or preserves gluten free?

Jam is made from fruit, sugar, and pectin. These contain no gluten. Most brands are safe, though some may add thickeners or flavourings that contain gluten.

Can coeliacs eat jam or preserves?

Most plain jam is safe. Check the ingredient list for thickeners.

Related Foods in Snacks and Sweets

Potato chips (plain) Potato chips (flavoured) Corn chips Popcorn Pretzels Crackers (regular) Rice crackers Nuts (plain or raw)

More from RefDat

Looking for kitchen gear that handles gluten-free cooking? See RefDat's Australian reviews of air fryers for coeliac-friendly options. 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 guidelines, Coeliac Australia

Last reviewed: May 2026