Is Oyster Sauce Gluten Free?

Check the Label
Often contains gluten; wheat-free versions exist.
Many oyster sauce brands contain wheat starch as thickener. Some brands are wheat-free but check label carefully.

Coeliac Disease

Check label carefully. Lee Kum Kee and premium brands often wheat-free.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Assume gluten unless labelled GF.

Why Does Oyster Sauce Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Oyster sauce is made from oysters, soy sauce, and thickeners. Many brands use wheat starch (especially cheaper brands). Premium brands may be GF.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ warns. Asian supermarkets in Australia stock both types; verify GF status.

United States (FDA)

FDA allergen label mandatory if wheat added.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g
Energy385 kJ / 92 kcal
Protein1.4g
Fat, total0.3g
Saturated fat0.1g
Carbohydrate20.5g
Sugars4.0g
Dietary fibre0.0g
Sodium2730mg

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

soy sauce base may contain gluten, cross-contamination

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Tamari-based oyster sauce, wheat-free oyster sauce brands, coconut aminos, Wheat starch as thickener.

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 Oyster Sauce gluten free?

Many oyster sauce brands contain wheat starch as thickener. Some brands are wheat-free but check label carefully.

Can coeliacs eat oyster sauce?

Check label carefully. Lee Kum Kee and premium brands often wheat-free.

Related Foods in Sauces and Condiments

Soy Sauce Tamari Fish Sauce Hoisin Sauce Worcestershire Sauce Tomato Sauce/Ketchup Mustard Mayonnaise

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, WHO, Coeliac Australia

Last reviewed: May 2026