Is Liquorice Gluten Free?
Coeliac Disease
Check every packet. Many liquorice brands contain gluten. Seek certified GF varieties.
Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)
Same as coeliac guidance. Many liquorice brands are not safe.
Why Does Liquorice Sometimes Contain Gluten?
Wheat flour and wheat starch are common fillers in chewy liquorice to improve texture. Malt extract is also used.
Australia vs United States
Australia (FSANZ)
FSANZ requires labelling. Many Australian liquorice brands (Darrell Lea, Beacon) contain gluten in chewy varieties.
United States (FDA)
FDA labelling. US liquorice brands are also mixed for safety.
Nutrition Information
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 liquorice brands stack up for gluten content.
| Brand | Region | Gluten Free? | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Darrell Lea | AU | Check | None | Check specific products; some contain gluten |
| RJ's | AU | Check | None | Classic liquorice may contain gluten |
| Twizzlers | US | Check | None | Check label for gluten-containing ingredients |
| Red Vines | US | Check | None | Regular varieties may contain gluten |
What to Watch For
Wheat flour, wheat starch, malt extract, liquorice root extracts (check for wheat additives).
Gluten Free Alternatives
If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Fruit leather, gluten free gummies, hard lollies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Liquorice gluten free?
Traditional liquorice is made from liquorice root extract, sugar, and gum arabic. However, many brands add wheat flour, wheat starch, or malt extract to chewy varieties. Some are safe, some are not.
Can coeliacs eat liquorice?
Check every packet. Many liquorice brands contain gluten. Seek certified GF varieties.
Related Foods in Snacks and Sweets
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 allergen labelling, ingredient analysis
Last reviewed: May 2026